Ryan Fraser has boosted his match fitness over the international break after an impressive fortnight with Scotland after a recall.
The former AFC Bournemouth winger played a big part in helping Scotland secure promotion to Group A in the UEFA Nations League with two assists across three games, and significantly, as far as Howe is concerned, putting in 72 minutes against Ukraine in the 0-0 draw that booked a guaranteed Euro 2024 play-off spot.
Fraser did shake off a slight illness to star in the game that was played on neutral territory against Ukraine but his presence should boost Howe. Sweden international Alexander Isak is expected to be ruled out while it is still unclear whether Allan Saint-Maximin will make the bench.
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With Callum Wilson hoping to return from a hamstring problem, and with other big hitters missing, Howe would ideally love to have his former Bournemouth duo in Wilson and Fraser in his three-pronged attack at Craven Cottage.
Speaking about Fraser's problem, Steve Clarke said: "We seem to have a little viral infection in the camp. Ryan Fraser actually had it the other night. He was up sick during the night before the Ireland game.
"With Ryan, it was less than 24 hours and then they are OK again."
Fraser played 14 minutes against Ukraine, when he made two assists, a 31-minute cameo against Ireland in a 2-1 win and then 72 minutes against Ukraine earlier this week. After starting just three games this season after suffering with a groin problem earlier in the campaign, Howe is keen to get him back to his best form at club level.
Fraser was a major part of the turnaround last season in the Premier League and picked up a string of 10/10 ratings in the spring.
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