Newcastle could have both striker Dwight Gayle and centre back Ciaran Clark in contention to face Preston North End on Monday evening.
The Chronicle report this morning that both players will be assessed by manager Rafa Benitez to see if they will be fit to feature in the crunch match at St James’ Park.
Top goalscorer Gayle has been troubled with persistent niggling injuries since the New Year, and had to be substituted in the first half against Sheffield Wednesday in the 2-1 defeat a couple of weeks ago. There were doubts whether he would feature again this season but it looks like he could play a part in the final three games.
Clark meanwhile hasn’t played since coming off with a knee injury against Fulham in the 3-1 loss back in late March. The former Aston Villa player has been missed with the Magpies conceding seven goals in his absence. Benitez described Clark’s return to full fitness “close” last week so there is every chance he will be available to start on Monday.
