Wissa is yet to play for the Magpies since his £55m summer move from Brentford, with the striker suffering a knee injury while away with DR Congo.

He's now back running and working on his fitness but isn't yet training with the first team squad and Howe doesn't know when that will be the case.

It was previously hoped that Wissa would be back and ready to make his debut at West Ham United this weekend, but that obviously isn't the case and at this stage there is no date or game pencilled in for the striker's return to action.

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The added complication is the African Cup of Nations, with Wissa expected to link up with the DR Congo squad for the tournament, which starts in December. DR Congo's next game is a crucial World Cup qualifier in a fortnight's time.

But Howe admits it's not currently clear when Wissa - who the head coach has previously said will need a mini pre-season-style programme - will be in contention to feature for the Magpies.

"It's definitely not West Ham," said Howe.

"He's...