CHRIS HUGHTON has underlined the importance of Steven Taylor’s presence in his side after the Toon centre-back made a successful return from a nagging hamstring problem.
Taylor returned to the starting XI in the 3-1 win over Peterborough United and now United manager Hughton is keen to see him stay there.
Taylor made his comeback with a solid display against Posh and reformed his defensive partnership with £10million Argentina international Fabricio Coloccini.
Hughton told the Chronicle today: “It’s a big plus.
“You want to keep continuity in the side, and with the two – Coloccini and Taylor – it’s a good partnership that’s worked well for us this season.
“We’re really delighted to have Steven Taylor back in there because his presence alongside Colo will be vital this season.”
Hughton was also satisfied with the performance of on-loan striker Marlon Harewood, who played his part in the 3-1 win over Posh by setting up Danny Simpson for the third goal.
Harewood has had an indifferent start to his Toon career and had been booed off against Doncaster Rovers in the 2-1 win in United’s previous home game.
Hughton said: “I’m pleased for Marlon.
“As a striker, it can be up and down.
“The fans want to see a winning side, but also want to see players that are having a go.
“They did, and even though he didn’t have the opportunities in front of goal, it was a real team performance from him.
“It was nice the reaction he got when he came off the pitch. “That was because of what he was prepared to put in.”
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