Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce may well look to give Jack Colback another chance to impress at St. James’ Park.
Colback has featured in both of Newcastle’s pre-season matches so far, and looks to have a chance at forcing his way into Steve Bruce’s plans this term.
Colback was surely heading for the exit door at St. James’ Park if Rafael Benitez had stayed at Newcastle, after he spent last campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest.
However, he has played over pre-season and Colback admits he never expected to be back in a Newcastle shirt.
“It’s a bit unexpected, but that’s football sometimes,” Colback said.
“Obviously, I knew I had a year left, but I wasn’t expecting to come back and be involved.
“Things can change. All I’ve got to do is apply myself and work hard for the team when selected. If I’ve got a realistic chance to play, then of course.
“I loved my time here when I was playing. It’s a great place to play, St James’s.”
If Colback is utilised by Newcastle next term, he would have a lot of doubters to win over at St. James’ Park.
Colback’s work-rate has rarely been in question, but whether he is good enough for a Premier League side is very much up for debate.
Some Newcastle fans have suggested that Colback’s inclusion in their pre-season tour just highlights that their squad has regressed since last term.
Newcastle have lost the likes of Ayoze Perez, Salomon Rondon, Joselu and Mo Diame over the summer to date.
Newcastle are next in action on Saturday when they take on Preston North End, and Colback could well feature again.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
