Newcastle midfielder Isaac Hayden will be returning to training in the next few days, according to manager Rafa Benitez.
The 22 year old has been out with an ankle injury since mid February, but his return to fitness after the international break will be a big boost for the Magpies as they head into April where they will play seven league games. Benitez told the Chronicle:
“Hopefully Hayden will be back in a few days and then we should also have Jonjo back to full strength. With Jack as well, that means quite a lot of competition – but it’s good to have options, especially if you have to change something during a game.”
Against Birmingham City last week, Benitez moved Mo Diame into a deeper lying midfield position alongside Jack Colback but with both Hayden, and Shelvey coming back after a virus, the Spaniard will have more options at his disposal during a crucial run of fixtures.
Although Hayden lost his place in the side to Jack Colback before his injury, the summer signing from Arsenal has made 32 appearances in all competitions since his arrival at the club, and he has started 26 games which demonstrates he is an integral first team player for Benitez.
