Newcastle United FC

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Ameobi sets return date

06 Dec 2006 - 12:46:31

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Injured Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi has ruled out a return to action this season after undergoing hip surgery in America.

The 25-year-old had been troubled by a hip complaint during the opening weeks of the season and finally travelled to Colorado last month to go under the surgeon's knife.

The former England Under-21 international has now set his sights on returning to action at the beginning of next season.

"The ultimate target is to get back for next season. That is my goal and I think that is a realistic target," he told the club's official website.

"I am 99 per cent sure I will be right for the start of next season.

"Basically, I have had a reconstruction of the hip joint. The ball and socket were quite damaged.

"The surgeon asked me how I had been playing with it and that just says how much I needed this done.

"But he was confident he could fix everything and he has done that. I feel great, apart from, obviously, being on crutches for a few weeks."