Eddie Howe: Jamaal Lascelles close to making Newcastle return

The 30-year-old defender sustained the injury during Newcastle's dramatic 4-3 victory over West Ham United at St James' Park in March 2023.

Though back training with Eddie Howe's senior squad, Lascelles was not included in the matchday squad for Sunday's Premier League fixture against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.

Serious doubts remain over whether the long-serving centre-back will feature again this season, despite his determination to return before the campaign ends.

"With Jamaal, he is making good progress," Howe said. "Really pleased with how he has looked since coming back to training.

"It has been a slow, steady return, he's certainly not been rushed. Possibly he could be involved before the end of the season but maybe it will depend on injuries with some of the other players within the squad.

"I think maybe for Jamaal it would be better if it was next season but I think if he feels good and has done enough training then [him playing this month] is certainly something we'll look at."

Newcastle, pushing to secure Champions League qualification, face a crucial final stretch. Howe is aiming to have as strong a squad as possible available for the remaining four matches.

In a heartening moment, Lascelles recently joined his teammates at Wembley Stadium to lift the Carabao Cup, a significant symbolic gesture marking his ongoing role as club captain, even in absence from the pitch.

There had been speculation earlier this year that Lascelles was approaching the end of his contract, but it is now understood that a previously unannounced extension means he is tied to the club until the end of next season.