Howe issues major update on Joelinton, Pope, Trippier and Almiron ahead of Burnley trip

After confirming that Fabian Schar (hamstring) looks set to miss our final four games, Eddie Howe has shared some good news on the injury front.

Speaking to the press this morning, he’s confirmed that Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Nick Pope are all back in full first team training, while Kieran Trippier is expected back next week after spending some time in Dubai to work on his fitness.

Howe admits it’s given the squad a ‘big lift’ to have three key players back in training. He’s unsure if Joelinton, Almiron or Pope will be available for tomorrow’s trip to Burnley and will make a late call. However, it’s a massive boost to have all three close to comebacks just as we’ve lost Schar for the remainder of the season.

“We’ve had Miggy and Joelinton return this week.” Howe said. “It’s their first steps back into full team training. We’ve also seen that with Nick Pope as well so it’s been a good week to have three, experienced and quality players back.

“It’s certainly given us a big lift. We’ll see after today [if they’re available for Burnley]. I’ve got to make the right decisions individually and for the team. They’ve had significant injuries, so we need to get this call right.

“Kieran hasn’t trained with the group this week, he’s been away training by himself with our physiotherapist. We anticipate he’ll be back next week to train, hopefully. He could be involved before the end of the season.”