Newcastle United could have Matt Targett available for the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United according to Eddie Howe.
Targett has not been involved in the Newcastle squad since Boxing Day, but Howe believes that the left-back will now be available for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final.
The 27-year-old has been out of action with a heel injury, but has been stepping up his recovery in recent weeks. He was pictured running on the grass at the club’s training ground, which led to Howe confirming that the £15million was closing in on a return.
The former Aston Villa man then took a huge step towards full fitness on Saturday when he represented the Magpies’ Under-21s side in a 4-1 win over Brentford B. Targett played 60 minutes, and provided a goal and an assist.
It was a fruitful outing for Targett, and Howe believes he could now be available for selection at Wembley this weekend.
Eddie Howe thinks Matt Targett will be available against Manchester United
The Newcastle boss has spoke to the media ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final, and addressed Targett’s injury.
“Matt Targett has improved a lot,” he said, as reported by the Northern Echo.
“We thought it was wise to leave him out of the (Liverpool) game and build his fitness. I was really pleased with what he did.
“I’d say he’ll be available for selection.”
Targett’s return is a big boost for Newcastle
It is excellent to hear that Targett will be available for the cup final. His return will give us more strength in depth on the bench, as there is no way he will immediately be thrust straight back into the starting XI.
Targett will be able to provide backup for Dan Burn, who has taken his place at left-back. His return will also allow Howe to take off one of his centre-backs and move Burn into the middle.
That flexibility will be a big boost to the manager, who has rarely been able to turn to Targett this season. He was excellent during last season’s loan spell, but has endured a tough time since making the move permanent.
The defender started the campaign in the starting lineup, but eventually lost his place to Burn. Then injury struck, forcing Targett to watch on from the sidelines.
But it looks like he is back now, and ready to return to the Toon squad for the club’s biggest game in years.
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