The Magpies welcome Crystal Palace to St. James' Park on Wednesday (kick-off 7:30pm BST) looking for a sixth successive victory - and knowing that result would lift them up to third in the Premier League table.

Tindall again took on media duties in Howe's absence, following Monday evening's confirmation that the United boss had received a diagnosis, having missed Sunday's 4-1 win over Manchester United.

Here are some of the main talking points from Tuesday morning's pre-match briefing, including Howe's recovery, Joe Willock's availability and their all-important game in hand against Oliver Glasner's men:

On Howe...

"He's in the best possible hands and he'll be back as soon as he feels he's ready to come back.

"Your health is the most important thing - that's why it's so important that when he comes back he is able to lead the team as we know he does, which I'm sure he will do."

On preparations for the clash with Palace...

"We know the expectations and the demands we put on each other every day and it's going to have to remain that way until the manager is back.

"We know what we need to do, we know how we prepare."

On Willock's availability and other team news ahead of the game...

"He's now exiting the concussion protocols so he's available now to be involved in the squad tomorrow.

"Everybody has come away from Sunday fine. It was good to get Anthony Gordon some minutes and good to have him back with the qualities he's got. The squad is in good shape."

On Sandro Tonali...

"From a football perspective we did a lot of research on Sandro (before he signed). We loved him as a footballer, technically and tactically.

"But it's only when you work with him so closely you realise what an exceptional talent he is and he's delivering consistent performances. He's a great lad with a fantastic attitude. He's a top, top player."