The Magpies face the Cottagers on Tyneside looking to build on what Howe described as a "welcome performance and result" against Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday night, having been beaten at Brighton last weekend.

Ahead of the visit of Marco Silva's men, Howe met the media to discuss that win, the challenge in front of them this weekend and the contract situation of midfielder Sandro Tonali.

He also spoke about the form of frontman Nick Woltemade, Nick Pope's superb assist for Harvey Barnes' goal in midweek and

Here are some of the main talking points from the United head coach's pre-match media briefing:

On the 3-0 win over Benfica...

"It was a welcome performance and result. It was important for us and puts us in a good position in the Champions League, and it gives us a good feeling going into Saturday."

On team news ahead of Saturday...

"I think everyone came through the game OK.

"Sandro is still the player we are monitoring - he did train but wasn’t feeling 100%. He will be touch and go."

On Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall's respective rehabilitations...

"Tino is back on the grass for the first time today, so happy for him.

"Lewis is the same, on the grass and doing well, so hopefully he is not too far away."

On Tonali's contract situation...

"A lot happened around the time he was banned... a lot of discussions were had.

"Sandro has felt the love with everyone connected with the football club. He felt that love and support and needed it at the time. He has been brilliant for us.

"Sandro is happy, he is enjoying his football. He is integral to the team."

On Fulham...

"The very best performance will be needed. We know the qualities of their team.

"These are difficult games for us, returning from a Champions League game. It is a mental challenge, and we must rise to that challenge."

On his side's mentality...

"It is all down to our attitude, our mentality. Our attitude must be the same for every game.

"Our attitude against Benfica was very good, our will to win was there. That needs to be every game."

On how often Pope's assist for Barnes against Benfica has been discussed this week...

"Maybe in Nick's house! Sure he has had the video out a few times.

"It was a great moment for Nick, for Harvey and the team. I’m sure it is one we look back on in time as it is not often you see a goalkeeper do that."

On captain Bruno Guimarães' durability...

"His biggest strength is his consistency. His attitude, he is a very positive person, and that positivity that he brings carries through all aspects of his life.

"He has that reliability, you can call on him consistently, that he can perform again and again. He's always there to deliver not just week on week, but month and then season after season, so full compliments to him."