Rafa Benitez will be given a triple fitness boost ahead of Newcastle United’s crucial relegation battle with fellow strugglers Cardiff City, according to the Chronicle.
Mo Diame, Jamaal Lascelles, and Kenedy have all returned to training ahead of Saturday’s visit from the Bluebirds.
Diame has not featured since the beginning of January due to a hip injury but is expected to be reassessed ahead of the clash this weekend, while Lascelles, who was forced to withdraw from the FA Cup third round replay against Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night with a muscle injury, returned to action on Thursday.
Kenedy is also expected to be in contention after overcoming a toenail issue that prevented him from putting his boots on.
OPINION
Saturday’s match against Cardiff might be the most important of Newcastle’s season so far. They desperately need to arrest the slump that has seen them drop back into the relegation places, and Cardiff City present a very beatable opponent in a run of fixtures that is nothing short of horrendous for the Magpies. Because of it’s significance, the Toon Army could do with all the help they can get, and having a trio of first team regulars back in contention for a starting berth will be a huge boost for Rafa Benitez. The Spaniard will know how difficult the Bluebirds are to break down, but will also be keenly aware of how important it is not to concede first at St. James’ Park, and will be hoping that the addition of Lascelles and Diame in particular can help blunt any attacking force. As for Kenedy, the Brazilian has drifted out to the periphery of Benitez’s plans in recent weeks, and maybe the short absence he has endured will give him a renewed sense of purpose.