Newcastle squad struck down by illness as Bruno Guimaraes a doubt vs Athletic Club

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed that the Magpies are battling a significant illness outbreak within the squad ahead of their showdown with Athletic Club. Howe faces a crucial decision over Bruno Guimaraes, who has been training separately after becoming the latest Toon star to succumb to the bug.

Kieran Trippier remains doubtful despite taking part in training sessions for the encounter with the Spanish outfit. Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, Trippier and Jacob Murphy have all been struck down with illness as Howe attempts to protect his remaining players heading into the fixture.

Speaking at his press conference before the clash with the La Liga outfit, Howe revealed: "Various players have picked something up. Sandro initially, Jacob Murphy, Kieran and now Bruno. We will make a decision on Bruno tomorrow."

Howe withdrew both Nick Woltemade and Anthony Gordon at the interval during the 3-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday.

Explaining those substitutions, Howe stated: "With Nick we have thrust him into every single game near enough, and he looked a little bit fatigued so it was a decision to benefit Nick and the team going forward.

"With Anthony, he has played very well in the Champions League but he hasn't played quite as well in the Premier League and that is now his challenge."

Unlike their domestic struggles, Newcastle are performing impressively in European competition.

Victory over Athletic could propel United to nine Champions League points and edge them closer to securing automatic qualification. Howe stated: "Whenever you deliver a performance like that it is never one-dimensional.

"It's a really important game for us as we know what we have ahead in the Champions League. Athletic Club will be stiff opposition. Defensively, they are really well organised, and they have delivered some strong performances this year. But Champions League nights here are always special.

"We are right in the midst of a run of games that are hugely enjoyable and hugely challenging. We are hugely disappointed with our inconsistency in the Premier League.

"Results-wise, our recent run has been pretty strong, but because we have so many competitions, we haven't strung them together in the Premier League.

"I think man-management is very important, regardless of when you are winning and losing. We try to be very active with all the players on all scenarios and I talk to the majority of the players about what is expected of them ahead of the next game."