Karl Darlow pictured back in Newcastle training ahead of Southampton trip

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Newcastle United take on Southampton this weekend, and have Karl Darlow back in training ahead of the trip to the South Coast.

The 32-year-old has missed a large part of this season due to an ankle injury, but has now overcome that problem to return to training with Eddie Howe’s squad.

Darlow has only played once for Newcastle this season. That was the 2-1 win over Tranmere in the League Cup back in August.

Shortly after that appearance, he picked up an ankle injury in training that ruled him out for two months. And with the transfer window closed, it forced the Magpies to dip into the free agent market.

That led to Loris Karius signing for Newcastle, and he has taken Darlow’s place on the bench ever since.

But now the German stopper has competition for the role of being Nick Pope’s deputy. Howe will be delighted to have Darlow back, as he is now edging closer towards having a fully fit squad.

Club record signing Alexander Isak should return after the World Cup, while Emil Krafth remains a long-term absentee. Beyond that, the only other player seemingly struggling for fitness now is Matt Ritchie.

Elliot Anderson also seen in training alongside Karl Darlow

Another player Newcastle have recently been without is Elliot Anderson. The 19-year-old has missed the Magpies’ last two games, but was in attendance at St James’ Park for the 4-0 win over Aston Villa.

Howe did not name him as one of his nine substitutes, and Anderson will be keen to return to the bench against Southampton, having been pictured in training.

Joelinton’s suspension could create an opportunity for the local lad. He is one of multiple options who could replace the Brazilian on the left of Newcastle’s attack.

While it would be incredibly exciting to see Anderson start his first ever Premier League game, it seems unlikely. Right now, it looks like a toss up between Allan Saint-Maximin and Jacob Murphy. Hopefully it’s the former – if he’s fit enough.

For Anderson, he may have to settle for a cameo off the bench before possibly starting in the League Cup next week against Crystal Palace. Darlow might be targeting that fixture too, having made his only appearance of the season in that competition.