The Magpies welcome Roberto De Zerbi's men to St. James' Park for their final home game of the season this weekend as the 2023/24 campaign enters its final week.

And head coach Howe is hoping for another "aggressive" showing to match some of his charges' best displays in front of the black and white faithful this term.

He was speaking to the media at the club's Benton training centre on Friday morning ahead of the game. Here are some of the main topics up for discussion:

On playing at St. James' Park one final time this season...

"We have loved playing at home this season. I have been really pleased with how we have performed at home.

"We have a good feel, a good energy and we've been very aggressive in our play. We are thankful for the support we have received from the fans - the crowd have embraced our style. It's been a good partnership between the crowd and the players."

On Alexander Isak, who has been nominated for the Premier League's Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards...

"Alex has scored some great goals for us, especially in the second half of the season. He is fully deserving of that recognition.

"I have seen him flourish this season, he has enjoyed the environment he has played in. I want to push Alex to great things."

On the fitness of Kieran Trippier, who has been sidelined through injury since March...

"Kieran is getting closer, he has trained this week. It was the first time with the group.

"He trained well, it has been a good week for him. I will make a decision today on whether he will be involved tomorrow."

On Joelinton and Miguel Almirón, who both returned to action in last weekend's 4-1 win at Burnley...

"They have trained well, we have been able to get some good work into their bodies. They are still building their robustness, if you like - you need the load behind you to stay fit. They are doing well."

On De Zerbi's Brighton, who currently sit 11th in the Premier League table...

"They are a very good team - their style is difficult to grab hold of and control. They stick to their method, and they have become very strong at it.

"We were off it tactically in the game at Brighton. We know we are going to need to perform well. They are a very strong team."