Newcastle midfielder Isaac Hayden says he is chomping at the bit to return to first team action for the Magpies.
The 22 year old was on the bench for Newcastle’s 2-1 over Wigan Athletic at the weekend, with Jonjo Shelvey and Jack Colback taking the two central midfield berths, but the former Arsenal player says he is now fully fit, and is hoping for opportunities to start in upcoming matches. He told the Chronicle:
“The games come thick and fast. There is a lot of competition for places in the squad and hopefully I can contribute the best way I can. It’s been a little while now since I have been involved.”
“I have been watching a few games from the stands and as a player that is the last thing you want to be doing. To be back in the squad and be able to come on and contribute is nice.”
Hayden had been sidelined since late February after undergoing ankle surgery. He had been playing through the pain prior to the operation but he is now back to peak condition for the Magpies’ Championship promotion run-in.
Newcastle face Burton Albion tomorrow night, and with Hayden ready to make an impact from the start, manager Rafa Benitez could give him in the starting eleven against the Brewers, as he looks to keep his team fresh with six games still to play this month.
