Asked about Callum Wilson Howe said “we think he won't make tomorrow but it'll be close. As it stands, he won't make it’
On Joelinton it’s a similar story and Sven Botman is definitely out. However, the news on Tonali was more positive with Howe stating that the Italian International is “fine”.
With Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock out with long term injuries and Emil Krafth not named in Howe’s champions league squad as he continues his recuperation Howe must be relieved that the rest of his squad came through Saturday’s game unscathed.
On the game itself Howe was quick to point out the role that the crowd will play tomorrow night. “They will bring their noise, enthusiasm, and love for the game. We need to use that powerfully in our performance. You can use too much emotion in home games, but I think we have got the balance right”.
Asked about Mbappe Howe said “It's very difficult to combat him. Our defensive record has been strong, our team performance has been strong. It's never down to one player. I don't believe in man-marking. We need to do well in our units, nullify the space and hopefully keep the best player in the world quiet”.
Kieran Trippier also faced the press and naturally Kylian Mbappe was the name that the press sought his opinion on. And like a true professional her didn’t disappoint. “This is football. This is the level you want to play at. You want to be against the best players and the best teams.
Paris have got unbelievable players. Mbappe is one of the best in the world, but they've got quality all over the pitch but on our day, we can hurt anyone”.
I've played against him on his debut for Monaco when I was at Spurs. I played against him for England on my debut quite a few years ago.
He's a fantastic player. You want to play against the best in the world. It will be a great occasion for the club and a game we think we can win”.
Asked if he considered Mbappe to be the best player in the world Trippier said” He's certainly one of the best in the world. He's been incredible but every single game we always prepare how we can win the game and hurt the opposition. Tomorrow is no different. You always have to respect the opposition, but you have to find a way to win”.
Trippier will be directly facing up to the French superstar as Mbappe is expected to turnout in his favoured left-wing berth and when asked about the prospect Trippier said “It's a challenge I'm ready for. I've played against plenty of good wingers and tomorrow is no different. Champions League is where I want to play”.
Asked about his son’s love for Mbappe, Trippier had those present laughing as he informed those assembled “I was having banter with him last night. He wants to walk out with him tomorrow night and not me! I'm not happy! I've told him if he gets to walk out with him, don't look at me in the tunnel!”