Photo: Isaac Hayden returns to Newcastle training after injury

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Isaac Hayden has finally returned to training after injury.

The midfielder hasn’t played for Newcastle since December 2021. His last appearance was the 4-0 hammering from Manchester City late last year. Interestingly, that was the last time the Magpies lost a Premier League game at St James’ Park.

Following that loss, it was confirmed that Hayden was set for a spell on the sidelines. After playing through the pain barrier, he eventually underwent surgery. It was reported that he would miss two months of action.

However, his season effectively came to an end when the January transfer window closed.

Eddie Howe named a new 25-man Premier League squad on February 3rd, and it didn’t include Hayden. He was dropped from the squad alongside Ciaran Clark and Jamal Lewis.

It was a gutting blow for Hayden, who has been a key Toon player in recent years. First he was struck down by injury, then he was axed from the Premier League squad.

He’s remained in the headlines though, and was recently charged by the FA for comments made after Newcastle’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.

Isaac Hayden back on the training pitch after injury

While he won’t be able to play this season, Hayden is getting closer to a return to fitness. Ahead of the game with Crystal Palace, the 27-year-old was pictured training on grass for the first time this year.

Hayden has reacted on Twitter too, writing: “Road to recovery nearly complete, forever smiling.”

His road to recovery is nearly complete, almost four months after undergoing surgery. However, he won’t fully complete his journey until next season.

That’s when he’ll be allowed to play again, but that begs another question – who will he play for? It looks like his future belongs away from St James’ Park. He seems certain to leave the club this summer.

If Hayden does leave, he will be remembered fondly for his time with the Toon. And whoever does sign him will be getting the ultimate pro who will do whatever it takes to help his team.