We head to Anfield having narrowly missed out on automatic qualification for the Champions League last 16 despite a fine showing at Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night, with a play-off still to come.
Guimarães was an unused substitute at the Parc des Princes in midweek but with a return to Premier League action to come at the home of the champions this weekend, head coach Howe says he will assess his captain's fitness before picking his side for the clash on Merseyside.
He also provided updates on Joelinton and Tino Livramento's respective recoveries, and discussed Friday's upcoming Champions League play-off draw.
Here are some of the main talking points from Howe's pre-match media briefing:
On skipper Guimarães' chances of featuring on Saturday...
"It's slightly unknown at the moment. He did really well to be with us in Paris - that was down to the fact he was desperate to support the players.
"He did very, very light training. He trained with us yesterday but that was more of a test so we'll see how he is today. This will be where we decide (for tomorrow)."
On Joelinton's fitness...
"He flew on to Barcelona after the game to get an injection in his groin. It was good news. The specialist feels he only needs one injection and that means his return could be quite quick and we're looking at weeks, not months.
"Unsure of the exact date yet, but it's positive news."
On Livramento's recovery from injury...
"He's doing well. I believe he's having a scan today - a second scan to see the progress of his hamstring. Fingers crossed it's good news and if it is, he'll be back out running.
"We're still probably five to six weeks away and we're looking at an early March return, providing everything goes well."
On Friday's Champions League draw...
"Whoever we get, it's going to be a great tie. A great moment for us.
"I'm really pleased with Wednesday and really pleased we showed really good defensive qualities. We go into the next draw with real positivity and I'm excited for whoever we get."
On the challenge of facing the Reds at Anfield...
"For us it's about making sure we perform in every game, regardless of where we play.
"It's a great fixture. Historically, it's been a great fixture. We want to try and do that justice by being the best we can."
