Eddie Howe has cast doubt over Jamaal Lascelles making an appearance for Newcastle United before the end of the season.
It’s been 12 months since Lascelles last played for the Magpies after he sustained an ACL injury in last season’s 4-3 comeback win over West Ham United. In that time, the club’s captain has suffered a handful of minor setbacks.
Lascelles is now back in light training with the squad but is still some time away from taking part in competitive drills. Although there are just 10 games of the Premier League campaign remaining, United aren’t of any mind to rush him back.
Doubt over Jamaal Lascelles’ fitness - and future
Providing an update on Lascelles, Howe said: “I don't know whether we'll see Jamaal before the end of the season. I don't really want to set a target on his time to return. I think he has started very light training with the squad, but that would be light, not necessarily in competitive drills, but on the drills that are non-competitive he has joined in and he's looked really good. Small steps for him.
“We're hoping that he can definitely be joining in and competing in training before the end of the season. Whether that ties in with the team or whether he gets there in time, let's wait and see for competitive action. But he's a big player.”
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There’s a chance Lascelles might have played his last game for Newcastle. The defender is out of contract in June and as it stands, no talks have taken place over an extension.
Jamaal Lascelles’ story at Newcastle United
Lascelles joined Newcastle 11 years ago from Nottingham Forest and in his second season at the club earned the captaincy as a 22-year-old after standing up against some of his mercenary teammates during the 2015-16 relegation season.
From Championship promotion, Premier League relegation battles, Champions League football and seeing the club end its 70-year domestic trophy drought, the now 31-year-old has experienced it all at St James’ Park.
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While his playing time has been restricted, the centre-back has continued to lead the club behind the scenes and set standards. That was recognised during Newcastle’s Carabao Cup celebrations when he lifted the trophy at Wembley and the Town Moor alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier.
“As you said, he's very popular,” Howe continued. “He's still a huge leader in the group. He's got a big presence. I'm delighted that he got the chance to lift the cup with the other guys and he deserved that moment for the length of time that he's been here and the service he's given the club.”