Howe sweating on availability of two players ahead of Monday's trip to Man Utd

Kieran Trippier, after a strong display in the 3-0 win over Aston Villa, could potentially be seeing a fresh spell on the sidelines due to an injury picked up on Thursday afternoon.

He filled in well for Tino Livramento, who Eddie Howe has also been speaking about following our Boxing Day victory, but limped off after 78 minutes.

Here's the latest on both and what Howe has had to say since Thursday's win:

Howe's comments on Tino and Trippier

Eddie Howe sounds optimistic that Tino Livramento will be back from illness in time for Monday's trip to Man Utd, but Kieran Trippier's availability remains in doubt.

Speaking after the win, Howe said this on our two right-backs:  “It was a very strong performance from Kieran. He's been waiting patiently. The little cameos he's had in recent weeks. Have certainly helped him get his feeling back and get his rhythm back.”

"He's a vastly-experienced player and I'd no doubt today that he would do well. The only question mark was how long would he last due to a lack of game-time. But I thought he did very well when he was on the pitch, so let’s see how he reacts to the game.

On Livramento, he added: "It was an illness issue, but fingers crossed he’ll be okay for Man United.”

Performance Director James Bunce was quick to see to Trippier after he limped off on Thursday, whilst Matt Targett deputised at right back for the rest of the game in a rare appearance for the former Aston Villa man.

Trippier injury would be a blow

Though the full extent of Trippier’s situation isn’t known just yet, it has put a dampener on what was an otherwise a welcome return for the 34-year-old.

His start against Villa was his first since October, where he's been working his way back from a hamstring issue that's allowed Livramento to consolidate his place at right-back.

But, with the schedule of games showing no signs of slowing down and the visit to Old Trafford just days away, we'll have to hope at least one of Trippier and Tino - who is hopefully getting better - are available to face Man Utd.

Otherwise, Targett can be expected to start for the first time since September 2023, where he was on the winning side against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.