Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Keegan takes time with Joey

08 Aug 2008 - 08:48:36

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Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan is expecting errant midfielder Joey Barton to be in contention for a first-team return in about a month's time.

The 25-year-old former Manchester City star was recently released from prison after being jailed for assault and is still some way away from regaining full fitness.

Keegan told the Daily Express: "Joey has been working very hard on a fitness programme and is just getting his head down, which is what he has done ever since I came back to this club.

"His training and attitude have been excellent while I've been at this club. I've spoken to him and know he has just wants to get back to playing football, simple as that.

"Joey is fine, but he won't be featuring in any games until we get him match fit.

"There's no way he can regain match fitness between now and the start of the season and there's no way it would be sensible to give him a game at the moment.

"Normally you need a month to five weeks to get match fit."