Source: Telegraph
Newcastle boosted by return of Alan Smith
Smith has struggled to make an impact since leaving Manchester United for Tyneside but interim manager Chris Hughton is confident the Yorkshireman will come good. [LNB]The former Leeds and England player is now back in contention following ankle surgery and could fill a midfield void at Bolton this weekend created by Kevin Nolan's three-match ban for his horrific challenge on Everton's Victor Anichebe last weekend. [LNB] Related ArticlesNewcastle eye Keegan settlement[LNB]Kinnear's Newcastle job is safe[LNB]Southgate employing feelgood tactics[LNB]Sunderland's Short may lose invisibility[LNB]Newcastle United manager Joe Kinnear targets consecutive wins for his side[LNB]Newcastle boosted by Obafemi Martins return[LNB]Smith made his first appearance in that 0-0 draw with Everton but Hughton will have no hesitation in handing him a front-line berth at the Reebok. [LNB]"In Alan Smith we've got a wholehearted player who likes to work hard in games and training," Hughton said. [LNB]"That's probably the side a lot of people don't see, the real frustration of being out for such a long time when you can't affect anything. It's quite monotonous. [LNB]"You come in for training and treatment every day when, really, you want to be out on the training pitch and having an influence." Smith, whose time at Old Trafford was ruined by a broken leg at Anfield, has been a regular in the reserves in recent week as he worked his way back to match-fitness. [LNB]"I'm pleased for him, and he's chuffed himself," Hughton added. "Mentally, it's helped him, because he's been through it before. [LNB]"It still doesn't take away the frustration at having to watch the lads train every day, and having to watch the games every week. [LNB]"Alan Smith is one player who could come in but we do have a few options. [LNB]"Ryan Taylor did very well in there after Kevin Nolan was sent off against Everton, and Geremi also comes into contention." [LNB]
