JOEY BARTON could be poised to make a comeback for Newcastle United against Swansea City on February 13.
The Scouser has been out with a foot injury since September and, although the one-time England international is due to start training again with his team-mates this week, he is not ready to make an immediate return to the first-team stage, according to Chris Hughton.
And that means that Barton will be in the stands again on Friday night when Cardiff City come to Toon, while next Tuesday’s trip to Pride Park to face Derby County will also come too soon.
But there is a chance he could ready to make his return when United travel to South Wales to face the Swans in what is certain to be a feisty atmosphere at the Liberty Stadium.
Hughton resists talk of sealing promotion Mar 18 2010
CHRIS Hughton hailed his irresistible Newcastle United side for brushing aside Scunthorpe United last night – but warned they would be brought back down to earth with a bump if they take promotion for granted. more
Wayne Routledge desperate to face Scunny Mar 17 2010
CHRIS HUGHTON has revealed that Wayne Routledge is straining at the leash to get a slice of the action against Scunthorpe tonight. more
Joey Barton: I'm now a better player Mar 17 2010
JOEY Barton took a step closer to returning to Newcastle United’s first team last night insisting he is a better player than when he signed for the club three years ago. more
Kevin Nolan's now the bedrock of revitalised United team Mar 17 2010
KEVIN Nolan has epitomised Newcastle United this season. Devastated by the pain of relegation and stung by the personal criticism which followed, the midfielder has been at the vanguard of the dressing room renaissance. more