Eddie Howe says goalkeeper Nick Pope is in contention to return for Newcastle for the trip to Manchester United on Boxing Day.
Pope has missed the last seven matches with a groin injury, with Aaron Ramsdale deputising in his absence, but worryingly, Newcastle have not kept a single clean sheet in that time.
Asked whether the first-choice keeper could be back for the clash against Manchester United, Howe said: "There's a chance. He hasn't trained yet and we hope he might train today. We will see how he does."
Newcastle have been hit with a defensive injury crisis in recent weeks, with the likes of Dan Burn, Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, and Sven Botman all out.
That has led to some poor form for the Magpies. They have only won once in their last four games and have been languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League for much of the season.
But Howe had some positive news on the return of Botmn, telling reporters: "Sven would be in the category of players who are doing well. And again, we hope to get him back pretty soon.
"When that day is, I'm not quite sure. He has not trained with the group yet. It is potentially good news and he is not too far away."
Newcastle have a brilliant record against Manchester United, winning five of the last six in all competitions against them.
