Howe pays tribute to Almirón after winger's departure | OneFootball

Almirón - who scored 30 goals in 223 appearances after joining the Magpies - departed earlier in the week after six years at St. James' Park.

The Paraguayan international rejoined the Five Stripes, where he was a popular figure during his first spell between 2016 and 2019, in the build-up to United's Premier League clash with Fulham on Saturday (kick-off 3pm GMT).

And head coach Howe paid tribute to the 30-year-old following his departure at his media briefing on Friday as his side get set to face the Cottagers on Tyneside. Here are some of the key talking points:

On Almirón's departure...

"Miggy was a very special player and person. He will be greatly missed by everyone.

"Miggy had a bubbly and bright personality, he was ultra professional. He would always be in looking after himself, eating the right foods and recovering, he was a really good role model.

"Miggy is going to be greatly missed as a player and as a person. He always gave his best, in any moment."

On Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes' fitness...

"Callum is getting there. We have seen him in training this week. He's not been involved in all of the session but part of it. There is no plan to involve him this week but (there is a) chance for games coming up after.

"Harvey is a little bit behind. He's going to be another two or three weeks."

On Fulham...

"When you play Fulham, you can see their qualities - they are very brave with every aspect, with and without the ball.

"They have added some players that have made their team very competitive. They were very impressive against us. We know this will be a tough game and we will never underestimate Fulham."

On September's reverse fixture...

"It was a tough day, a phase where we were struggling to reach our best form. Every team has strong qualities.

"Fulham deserved to win that game. They are a very good side with a very good manager, and they are very well coached."

On Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy's partnership in attack...

"Jacob and Alex are producing goals for us, and it is a great thing.

"We work on relationships all over the team in training. I am a big believer in partnerships - you can make your partner play better. It is great to see two players having a good season."