Newcastle United defender ends injury nightmare with first appearance in 13 months

Newcastle United club captain Jamaal Lascelles has finally returned to action.

The 31-year-old was a key player for Eddie Howe during last season’s injury crisis, only to go down with an injury of his own.

On March 30th 2024, Jamaal Lascelles suffered an ACL injury during Newcastle United’s 4-3 win over West Ham United.

He lost more than a year of his career, but now Lascelles is back and available for the Magpies.

The centre-back was an unused substitute during Newcastle’s win over Chelsea on Sunday, and has now made his first appearance since returning to fitness.

Jamaal Lascelles arrives at St James' Park ahead of Newcastle United vs Chelsea — Photo by Michael Driver | MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Jamaal Lascelles completes Newcastle United injury comeback

Newcastle United Under-21s were in action on Tuesday.

They took on Celtic B in a behind closed doors friendly at the Newcastle United training ground, with Jamaal Lascelles making his first appearance in more than 13 months.

He was part of the XI that played the first half, featuring alongside the likes of Sean Neave, Leo Shahar and Trevan Sanusi.

Two games left for Lascelles to achieve Newcastle United ambition

It was a surprise to see Lascelles named on the bench on Sunday.

The central defender received a huge round of applause during the first half, as he warmed up on the St James’ Park touchline.

Given the enormity of the game and Lascelles’ lack of sharpness, it was not a shock to see him remain on the bench.

It has been reported that Lascelles wants to play at least once this season, but time is running out for him to achieve that goal.

The Magpies have two Premier League games remaining. They face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, before welcoming Everton to Tyneside seven days later.