Source: Northern_Echo
Taylor remains important
CHRIS Hughton insists Steven Taylor remains an integral part of the Newcastle squad, even though the transfer- listed striker will not be available for another five weeks.[LNB] Taylor, who was placed on the transfer list after talks over a new contract broke down towards the end of last month, has been sidelined since dislocating his shoulder in a pre-season friendly at Carlisle.[LNB] The centre-half should return to light training before the end of the month, but is unlikely to be available for a return to first-team action until the middle of next month at the earliest.[LNB] Nevertheless, having included Taylor in the squad list he submitted to the Premier League at the end of the transfer window, Hughton claims the 24-year-old remains an important part of his plans.[LNB] As far as Steven is concerned, we are still looking at about five weeks or so (until he returns to action), said Hughton. We'll continue to assess his situation like we would with any injury. He still has a part to play for Newcastle.[LNB] Similarly, Danny Guthrie remains a key member of the first-team squad, even though he too remains sidelined through injury.[LNB] Guthrie, who sustained a knee injury towards the end of pre-season training, has missed all four of Newcastle's matches so far.[LNB] He will not be considered for Saturday's home match with Blackpool, and is unlikely to make the following weekend's away game at Everton.[LNB] However, he could return for the Carling Cup thirdround tie at Chelsea, and Hughton is looking forward to being able to add the midfielder to his squad.[LNB] It will still be two weeks for Danny, said Hughton.[LNB] However, this is certainly not a long-term problem and we expect him back in the frame quite soon.[LNB] Sol Campbell will continue to build up his fitness in this evening's reserves game with Liverpool.[LNB] The defender, who played the opening 45 minutes of last week's second-string clash with Sunderland, is expected to be involved in the game at Whitley Park.[LNB]
