Kieran Trippier faces late fitness test ahead of Aston Villa

Newcastle United full-back Kieran Trippier faces a late fitness test before the Aston Villa fixture on Sunday, according to Eddie Howe.

The England international scored his first goal for the Magpies in their most recent outing, which saw them win 3-1 and climb out of the relegation zone in the process.

Since joining Newcastle in the January transfer window, the team have been undefeated in the Premier League, with two draws and a victory, but he is now a doubt before Sunday's game.

"He has been so important for us in recent games, I thought he was outstanding against Everton, highlighted by his free kick, where the execution was brilliant. His all-round game was so good," Howe told the club website.

"It would be a big blow to lose him, but we will wait and see. We do not think it is a long-term injury, but we will have to make a late call on him for this game."

A victory against Aston Villa could see Newcastle move further away from the relegation zone, and potentially above Everton depending on other results.