Massadio Haidara made his comeback from injury in an Under-23’s match against Stoke.
Massadio Haidara has expressed his joy at making his long-awaited comeback from a knee injury which has sidelined him since last October.
The left back made his return to action in an Under-23’s clash with Stoke, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
The 23-year-old started the game and played 45 minutes before being replaced, and spoke to nufc.co.uk after the game to discuss his return.
“It’s been a long, long time. My last game was in October last year, so I’m really happy,” said Haidara.
“It’s been a lot of hard work for eight months. I worked hard, and now I’m just enjoying playing. I’ll take it step by step until I’m fit for the first team.”
Newcastle’s first team celebrate their second goal against Derby
Haidara has struggled to nail down his place in the Newcastle starting XI, be it because of bad form or horrific injuries. The Frenchman has spent much of his career on Tyneside in the treatment room, and will be hoping that this is the last comeback game he has to have.
Newcastle’s current first choice left back is Paul Dummett, and they also signed Moroccan Achraf Lazaar from Palermo last month to compete for a place on Rafael Benitez’s left side.
With Ciaran Clark and Vurnon Anita also capable of playing on the left side of defence, it will be difficult for Haidara to break back into the first team, having never had the chance to feature for Newcastle since Benitez became manager.
Paul Dummett is currently Benitez’s first choice left back
Despite the competition, Haidara is in no rush to return to the first team, and understands he must take his time at getting back to full fitness.
“It’s just about building it up. I don’t want to go too quick, so I just played 45 minutes and next time I will play more.”
Having overcome his latest injury, Newcastle’s number 19 may unfortunately have to rely on injuries to his teammates if he is to get a chance in the first team, as Newcastle look to continue their bright start to the Championship season.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
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