Isaac Hayden return is a big boost for him and Newcastle – even though he can’t play

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Isaac Hayden is set to return to full training with Newcastle United this week.

That’s according to reporter Chris Waugh, who confirmed the news on the Athletic.

The midfielder hasn’t featured for Newcastle since the 4-0 home defeat to Manchester City in December. Interestingly, that was the last time the Magpies lost at St James’ Park in the Premier League.

Hayden was ruled out with injury after that game, with knee surgery effectively ending his season there and then.

While he is almost fit to return, he won’t actually be able to play for Newcastle before the end of the season. That’s because he was dropped from the 25-man Premier League squad after January.

Given he’s only returning to full training now, Eddie Howe’s decision to drop him has been vindicated.

But his comeback is important, even if he can’t actually play for the Magpies.

Isaac Hayden needs to be fully fit going into pre-season

This summer is really important for Newcastle. Plenty of players are currently fighting for their future, while many others will almost certainly be moved on.

Sadly, Hayden probably falls into the latter category. Newcastle’s midfield are flying right now, while there is every chance that another option in the middle of the park could arrive in the summer.

That would leave Hayden even further down the pecking order than he already is. With change on the horizon, it feels incredibly likely that the 27-year-old will be sold by Newcastle during the transfer window.

But to get the move he needs, he’s going to need a full pre-season behind him. That’s why getting fit now is essential for the Rafa Benitez signing.

It means he can go into pre-season training with no more rehab needed – he can focus on earning a move elsewhere.

He’s a top professional and a reliable player. His versatility alone should earn him a move, whether that’s to another Premier League club or in the Championship.

But if he started pre-season still trying to find his fitness, teams are going to be less likely to take a punt on him. That could stunt his career even further.

Hayden has between now and the end of the season to train with his Toon teammates and get his sharpness back. Then when pre-season comes around he won’t be playing catch up and can hopefully secure a transfer.