The England full back has been sidelined through injury for over a month, with his last outing coming in the Carabao Cup third round victory over Bradford City at St. James' Park.

But, as his side get set to travel to West Ham on Sunday (kick-off 2pm GMT), Howe says he is hopeful of being able to welcome the 21-year-old back into the fold in the near future.

A win over the struggling Hammers could lift United back into the top half of the Premier League table, while Nuno Espírito Santo's men - who currently sit 19th - could move to within a point of safety if they take the points at the London Stadium.

Howe spoke to the media on Friday morning. Here are some of the main talking points from his pre-match briefing:

On Hall's fitness...

"He's very close. He hasn't trained with us yet, so hopefully he'll be training with us today for the first time. We'll see how he looks. He's worked really hard, looked after himself, looks in good shape, but we will have to reintroduce him at the right time."

On fitness issues in the rest of his squad...

"No fresh injuries. We are still managing Will Osula's ankle - we will see how he is today. But apart from that, we are as we were."

On West Ham...

"They have a group of very good players, especially in the attacking areas. We are going to have our work cut out to limit the space for their attacking talent.

"Our away form has not been strong enough, and we want to put that right in this game."

On the Carabao Cup draw, which sees the Magpies welcome Fulham in the quarter-finals...

"We asked for a home tie, so that was greatly received.

"It's a tough game, having just played against Fulham - that makes it an interesting one for us. It was a very narrow victory.

"We'll look forward to it when it comes around, but we are pleased to be at home."

On the challenge of facing the Hammers...

"This is a big game for us. As we go towards the next international break these next two games are huge."