Summer signing Andy Carroll could be in contention to feature against Brighton on Saturday.
The Magpies signed Carroll on a free transfer on deadline day but the Englishman is yet to feature for the club due to an injury. However, Bruce confirmed that the former West Ham forward could make his second debut for the club against Brighton on Saturday.
Bruce said: “He’s trained all of last week and all of this week so he’s put himself in contention, which is good news. Since he’s got himself fit and he’s been in and around outside on the grass and training with us for the last week, it’s been pretty evident that he’s given everybody a lift.”
Carroll, who left St James’ Park back in January 2011, has struggled to find form since. The 30-year-old made a combined 200 appearances for Liverpool and West Ham and scored 45 goals in all competitions for the two Premier League sides.
However, injuries have played a huge part in preventing him from playing to his full potential. Carroll would be hoping that he can manage to stay fit and have a good run of games under his belt and Bruce is hoping that him being a local boy gives the fans a lift.
He said: “Hopefully [he] can give the home supporters a lift. He’s the local lad who’s come back home, so good to see him involved again.”
After just one win in five games, Newcastle are stuck in 18th place in the league table. However, their performance in the last three games have been positive and Bruce will be hoping that Carroll can hit the ground running and make a serious difference in the remainder of the season.
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