Paul Dummett is yet to feature for Newcastle United this season due to injury.
The defender picked up a calf problem in the pre-season win over Doncaster, and hasn’t been seen on the pitch since.
He returned to training about a month ago, but is still yet to feature in a matchday squad.
Ahead of the Leeds game last week, manager Steve Bruce admitted that the game was ‘too soon’ for Dummett after suffering a setback.
But what about this weekend’s game against Watford? The trip to Vicarage Road would be the perfect time for the 29-year-old’s comeback.
Could Paul Dummett return from injury on Saturday?
Whether we’re playing a back five or a back four, Dummett belongs in the starting XI.
While he may be limited, he is as reliable as they come defensively.
Bruce changed system during the draw with Leeds on Friday night, switching to a back four. Matt Ritchie remained at left-back, and did a decent job given the circumstances.
However, the 32-year-old isn’t a long-term solution if we are going to utilise a back four going forwards.
Jamal Lewis is an option, but has really struggled since his move to St James’ Park. He should be our left-back for years to come, but the Watford game might not be the ideal time to bring him back into the fold.
If he’s fit enough, Dummett should come into the starting XI. He’s our only left-sided defender capable of neutralising Hornets star Ismaila Sarr.
The Senegalese winger has had a strong start to the season, scoring three times. He’s the player who Watford fans will hope can make the difference against Newcastle.
But we’ve seen in the past how good Dummett is in one-on-one situations. Forwards rarely get any change out of the local lad, who put in an astonishing performance off the bench against Southampton last season.
It might be a risk bringing Dummett straight back into the team, but if he’s fit enough, he’s our best shot at stopping Sarr.
While Newcastle are certainly missing Callum Wilson right now, it’s Dummett who they need back on Saturday.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
