· 14 May 2025, 10:30
**Newcastle United skipper Jamaal Lascelles has been missing from the squad for over 13 months after undergoing surgery on his ACL last year.**
While Sven Botman underwent the same surgery at roughly the same time and made his return to action at the turn of the year - ultimately needing a further week out for a separate knee problem - Jamaal Lascelles still hasn't kicked a ball for the first team.
The club captain was on the bench at St James' Park on Sunday as Newcastle beat Chelsea, and the 31-year-old will be hoping he remains in the match-day squad for the remaining two games.
Yesterday, Lascelles played 45 minutes for the reserves, his first taste of football in over a year.
> [](https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1922375271878942818)
Jamaal Lascelles made a return to action yesterday, playing 45 minutes for the reserves
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Speaking to NUFC TV after his first proper run out, a clearly emotional Lascelles spoke of how good it was to be back.
> "Yeah, just a huge relief really. It's been tough, obviously. You know, I've been injured for so long, a few setbacks on the way as well, but I stuck with it.
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> "It's been hard. It's been really challenging, physically, mentally, as well. But credit to the physio, I've been working with Alex, she's been fantastic, kept me strong, got me in good condition and finally got my reward now."
Lascelles is hoping to be involved on Sunday against Arsenal
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Lascelles went on to mention his return to the first team on Sunday and outlined his plans for the future.
> “I was delighted to be on the bench the other day.“Hopefully I’ll be on the bench or involved on Sunday and for the Everton game as well.“To be fair, what I’ve been through, I was just so happy to be on the bench. I got a great reception from the fans. It was quite emotional for me.
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> “Just travelling and being around the boys is such a huge reward so I’m happy with that.”