Newcastle United star Isaac Hayden is back in training.
The midfielder was stretchered off in the humiliating defeat to Brighton, picking up a season ending injury.
It was a real low for Newcastle. It looked like relegation was on the horizon. Key players were already injured even before Hayden was forced off.
But six games later and the Magpies are safe.
While Hayden has had to sit out, big players in Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin returned.
Performances improved, and Newcastle’s Premier League status was confirmed on Monday when Fulham lost to Burnley.
Now Newcastle can start to think about next season, although they will get the chance to play in front of fans next week.
10,000 supporters will be allowed to attend the game against Sheffield United at St James’ Park. It will be Newcastle’s first game in front of fans since March 2020.
Toon fans will get the chance to show their appreciation to the players who have represented the club proudly this season.
However, one man who deserves a lot of praise won’t be available.
Despite returning to training, Hayden is just building up fitness.
In a message to fans on Twitter, Hayden wrote: “Happy to be back outside and building up my fitness, gutted to not be able to play a part in front of the fans next week, but can’t wait to play in front of you next season.”
It’s disappointing that Hayden won’t get the chance to play in front of fans. The 26-year-old has been one of Newcastle’s best players this season, showing the kind of commitment that fans love to see.
Hayden was one of the players who suffered from COVID before Christmas. But he returned quickly, and put in an incredible performance at centre-back in a win over West Brom.
He is a real fan favourite, and fans are excited to see him return next season.
Fans show their appreciation for Hayden
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