As for outgoings and ongoing reports linking Alexander Isak with a move away, Howe added: "It comes with the territory. Maybe in my early days that would have left more of an impression but when you're in my position, you ignore it and it's irrelevant. There'll be so much talk and you can't control it so you don't even try."
Howe drops exit hint, reveals triple boost and January transfer stance
by Olly Hawkins ·
Eddie Howe has been speaking to the media this morning, discussing the latest on injuries, transfers and potential January exits heading into tomorrow's game at Tottenham.
Here's some of the key quotes from his Friday-morning presser, starting with his comments on Martin Dubravka's future.
Dubravka dilemma and transfer stance clear
Howe insisted that we ideally do not want Dubravka to leave this month, but accepted we "have to accept the player's wishes" as he nears the end of his contract, hinting that the Slovakian may be angling for a move to Saudi Arabia.
"The situation is we would not want him to leave, but you have to respect the player’s wishes. It's not as clear-cut as you think. He’s also out of contract in summer, so that adds another dynamic.
"But it’s all hypothetical. Martin has been outstanding since he came back in and I have a lot of respect for him.”
On incomings, Howe's stance remained the same: "I don't believe currently we have [the financial capability] but we're not really concentrating on incomings. We're focusing on the massive games in front of us.
Howe confirms triple boost
Howe was also asked about Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier and Nick Pope heading into a busy run of January fixtures, issuing a positive update on all three.
"I always said Sven will be in and around the Christmas games, he has worked incredibly hard to get himself into a good condition, he has had three games, he is in and around my thoughts. I will have to make a decision on who best fits that position, but it is great to have Sven back around. If Sven is in the squad, it is because he is fit and ready."
"I think we're OK. I don't see any major concerns from our last game," Howe added, confirming that Kieran Trippier is fit despite coming off on the hour mark at Old Trafford.
The boss also revealed that Nick Pope is back on the grass and improving. "Nick is starting goalkeeping work so he's back on the grass. He's not yet fully training with the group, but his knee is in a good place."
