Early team news as Howe issues major update on Isak, Joelinton, Botman & Willock
Speaking to the press for the first time in two weeks, Eddie Howe has issued an update on the injury front ahead of tomorrow's clash with Crystal Palace.
Starting with the good news, the boss is "confident" Joelinton (hamstring) will return after training well over the break. However, Alexander Isak (groin) is yet to train after withdrawing from the Sweden squad last week, meaning a late decision will be made on him.
Sven Botman (knee) is "improving" and the break has done him good, but it's not clear if he'll be fit for tomorrow. Joe Willock (Achilles) has trained this week for the first time, although this weekend will come too soon for the midfielder, with Howe resisting the urge to rush him back.
Elsewhere, Sandro Tonali has trained twice this week and is available for selection, but Lewis Miley is facing a few weeks on the sidelines from glandular fever. Here's what Howe's had to say on all of the above:
Howe on Joelinton - "He's trained well and has looked good. He's done a lot of work and I'm confident as I sit here now, he's going to be ok and return to the form we know he can produce because he's a huge player for us.
Howe on Isak - "Alex hasn't trained with us yet so we're going to leave it late to see if he's fit and available."
Howe on Botman - "Sven is improving. The two weeks has been good for him."
Howe on Willock - "I want him back but we have to do it sensibly. He's trained this week for the first time with the group but it's probably a bit early for him to be involved in the matchday squad, but he's getting closer. He's a huge player for us."
Howe on Miley - "He's got glandular fever so he's currently resting from that. He's probably a couple of weeks into four weeks of lower physical exertion but then hopefully we can build him up. It's a blow for us and him because he's a real talent."
Howe on injuries in general - "As you say we did have a few injuries. Not everything has cleared up and we're not in a perfect order but we feel a bit better."
