The midfielder pulled up against Middlesbrough back in October and hasn't appeared since and Howe also gave an update on Artur Boruc and Charlie Daniels.
"We felt Boruc could've been available last week but he missed out," Howe explained.
"He's improving, whereas Surman has had a slight setback. He felt some discomfort in his hamstring so he won't be available.
"Charlie missed the Arsenal game so we're going to have to make a late decision on him. We have a couple of selection issues but with the strength of the squad there are opportunities there."
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