Eddie Howe provides update on Matt Targett’s return from injury

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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that Matt Targett will not be involved in the game against Bournemouth today, but is closing in on a return from injury.

The left-back has not been in a matchday squad since Boxing Day, when the Magpies beat Leicester City 3-0 at the King Power Stadium.

Targett has been out with a heel injury since then, and is still not ready to return to full training. However, Howe has stated that the 27-year-old’s rehabilitation is going well, and that he is now close to working with the group again.

He was recently pictured back at the training ground, and has been running on the grass as he continues to build towards his comeback.

Now Howe has confirmed that a return to full training is on the horizon.

Eddie Howe says Matt Targett is nearly ready to return from injury

Ahead of the game against Bournemouth, Howe has spoke to the press. He provided an injury update on his team, and shared some information on Targett’s comeback.

“Matt Targett will still be out [against Bournemouth],” he said.

“He’s close to training. He’s worked hard on his rehabilitation with the physios and he’s getting close to returning to the group.”

Targett will be targeting Carabao Cup return

With Targett now close to returning to full training, he will be keen to prove his fitness ahead of the Carabao Cup final. The Magpies are set to face Manchester United at Wembley on February 26th.

Targett will be keen to return before the final and potentially earn a place on the bench at Wembley. He has played his part in this cup run, starting at left-back in the early stages of the competition.

But the £15million signing is no longer a guaranteed starter at St James’ Park, and his now behind Dan Burn in the pecking order. The local lad is having a brilliant season at left-back, meaning Newcastle have not really suffered from Targett’s absence.

However, Howe will be keen to welcome Targett back into the fold. It will give him more options in reserve, which will be vital when the Toon boss decides it is the right time to rotate.