Newcastle boss Howe insists Almiron 'vitally important'

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe insists they're not seeking to sell Miguel Almiron.

With Al Shabab making an offer for the Paraguay attacker, Almiron missed the FA Cup win at Fulham.

Howe said, "Miggy has been so important for us, last year he was an important goal-getter for us. This year he has worked incredibly hard. He has been reliable for us when he is fit.

"That has been vitally important for us when we have had injuries to our attacking players. So he is not underestimated by me in terms of his personality and what he produces on the pitch so of course I'd like to keep him."

Howe also said: "He is ill if that is what you are asking. He is genuinely ill.

"It's difficult. I'm not in hourly contact with what's going on and I'm a step removed. There is a possibility someone could leave I made that clear. That hasn't changed we have to wait to see what happens."