Rafael Benitez responds when asked whether Aleksandar Mitrovic will return to Newcastle United’s first-team

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Newcastle United striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is set to return from suspension against Liverpool.

Rafael Benitez has kept his cards close to his chest, when asked by the Shields Gazette whether Newcastle United striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will come into his thinking for a first-team place.

Mitrovic is available for selection again, after picking up a three-game ban for elbowing West Ham United’s Manuel Lanzini.

And Benitez has refused to be drawn over whether Mitrovic will go straight back into Newcastle’s starting line-up.

“We’ll see. The competition will increase now, and I think that will be good for the team,” the Spanish boss said.

“We want to have all the players available and competing, and then they have to realise that that is the way to have a stronger squad. Push, push and make sure they are ready to play.”

Newcastle are in need to find a prolific scorer, as they have had difficulties up-front so far throughout the campaign.

Joselu has led the line for Newcastle recently, and the Spaniard’s link-up play has impressed.

However, the former Stoke City man has been guilty of wasting some gilt-edged chances, and he does not appear to be a natural goalscorer.

Mitrovic has previously not been a Benitez favourite, but his return should increase Newcastle’s attacking threat.

Newcastle are next in action at the weekend, when they take on Liverpool at St. James’ Park.