Report: Jonjo Shelvey could be back in Newcastle’s squad vs Man United

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Eddie Howe could be able to include Jonjo Shelvey in his squad for the first time this season against Manchester United.

The Newcastle midfielder is yet to feature due to injury, having undergone surgery after the pre-season friendly against Benfica. That injury came at a terrible time, as Shelvey was looking incredibly sharp in the Magpies’ midfield.

But he is returning ahead of schedule, after initial fears that he could be out until after the World Cup.

Howe confirmed last week that the 30-year-old was set to return to full training, and it might not be long before we see him in a matchday squad. That hasn’t happened since the 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at St James’ Park in April.

According to the Northern Echo, he could be included in the travelling squad for Sunday’s game against Manchester United.

The Magpies will go to Old Trafford in high spirits, having climbed to sixth thanks to back-to-back wins over Fulham and Brentford.

Confidence is pulsing through this Newcastle side, and having Shelvey back would be yet another boost.

Shelvey would be a great option on the bench vs Man United

While he might be fit to return, there is no chance of the former Swansea man starting. Howe’s midfield three are performing well – in particular Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock.

Sean Longstaff is also playing at a good standard, and justified his selection over Joelinton at the weekend. The Brazilian had to settle for a place on the bench.

He will be keen to start against Man United, and is the most likely to come into the midfield if a change is going to happen.

But having Shelvey on the bench would be cause for celebration. He has been a big miss during his absence, especially in the draws against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.

Shelvey was playing at a really high standard during pre-season, and has been a firm favourite of Howe’s since he took over as manager. He will be keen to get him back in the starting XI as soon as possible.

That won’t happen this weekend, but it would be great to see him get some minutes off the bench.

The huge Old Trafford pitch suits Shelvey perfectly. With willing runners, there is always plenty of space for him to exploit.

Hopefully he comes through training this week unscathed and is able to be named on the bench on Sunday.