Rob Elliot is closing in on a return to Newcastle United.
Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot has told The Chronicle that he expects to be fully fit within the next few weeks.
The 30-year-old has been out of action since March after suffering knee ligament damage on international duty with the Republic of Ireland.
The layoff ruled Elliot out of Newcastle’s relegation run-in and also a trip to Euro 2016 with Martin O’Neill’s side.
Since he’s been gone, the Magpies have undoubtedly suffered in his absence.
Matz Sels endured a somewhat disappointing first nine games in the Championship following his arrival in the summer, and has been replaced by Karl Darlow in recent weeks.
If his form in the Premier League last season was anything to go by then manager Rafael Benitez will most likely start using Elliot again as soon as possible.
And the man himself says that day could well come before November.
He told The Chronicle: “Hopefully it will be the next few weeks. It’s now weeks rather than months – and that feels great to say.
“I just have to see what happens, but I am looking forward to being back in the routine with the lads every day. That’s the main thing.
“I could probably come back and play today, but that would be a massive risk and it’s just not worth it. You have to be really sensible, work hard and listen carefully to what people tell you and go from there.”
Newcastle fans will be delighted to see him back; not only because he is a very fine goalkeeper, but because it pushes Sels further down the pecking order.
Newcastle’s Fabricio Coloccini, Paul Dummett and Robert Elliot in action with West Ham’s Michail Antonio
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
