EDDIE HOWE expects Tino Livramento to be available for Newcastle United’s trip to Manchester United on Monday evening, but was delighted to see Kieran Trippier confirming his enduring ability in yesterday’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa.

Livramento missed the victory at St James’ Park because of an illness issue, but should have recovered by the time Newcastle head to Old Trafford for their final game of 2024.

Trippier started at right-back in his absence yesterday, and performed creditably for more almost 80 minutes before he headed off to be replaced by Matt Targett.

The former England international was making his first start since early October, and while Howe is pleased Livramento’s problem is not too severe, the Magpies boss is happy to have Trippier waiting in reserve.

“It was a very strong performance from Kieran,” said Howe, whose side climbed into the top five as they beat Villa thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak and Joelinton. “He’s been waiting patiently. I think the little cameos he’s had in recent weeks have certainly helped him to get his feeling and rhythm back.

“He’s a vastly experienced player, and I had no doubt at all today that he would do well. The 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. In terms of Tino, it was an illness issue, but fingers crossed he’ll be okay for Man United.”

When Trippier left the field, Targett came on to make his first appearance of the season, having suffered from a string of injury issues of his own.

The left-back has only made 44 senior appearances since first joining Newcastle on loan in January 2022, but Howe claims he could have an influential role to play in the remainder of the season.

“It was pleasing to see Matt back out on the field when you see behind the scenes, and how he’s conducted himself,” said Howe. “He’s had injury troubles, but he’s come back and trained really, really well.

“He’s really a left-back, but we knew today that with Tino’s illness, we would need him potentially if Kieran couldn’t make it all the way through the game, so our plan pre-game was to put him on in that position (at right-back) and he didn’t let us down. I thought he was excellent. He’s got the experience to play on that side despite being very left-footed.”