Newcastle United injury boost as player confirms Manchester United final injury return

Newcastle United will have Matt Targett available for tomorrow’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester United (kick-off 4:30pm).

The left-back hasn’t been named in the matchday squad since Boxing Day due a to heel injury but is set to take his place on the bench at Wembley.

Confirming his availability, Targett posted on Instagram: ‘Let’s go”.

Targett played an hour for under-21s in a 4-1 friendly win over Brentford B last Saturday, and the £12million summer signing helped himself to a goal and assist.

“Certainly, Matt Targett’s improved a lot,” said Howe on Tuesdsy. “He had a game at the weekend. We thought it was wise to leave him out of the game, and really pleased with his fitness.

“I was really pleased with what he did, so I’d say yeah, he’ll be available for selection.”

It’s been a frustrating campaign for the former Aston Villa man, a big contrast to the form he showed last season to help turn his initial loan move into a permanent one.

A slight injury and then illness disrupted Targett’s start to the campaign. Dan Burn moved from centre-back to left-back, with his and the team’s form allowing the 30-year-old to nail down a regular spot.

But Howe believes Newcastle have missed Targett, who has made 12 appearances in 2022-23.

“We’ve definitely missed Matt,” said the Magpies’ head coach. “First and foremost, he’s a great player, a great character, a very, very consistent trainer, and someone who goes about his business in a very professional way.

“(They’re) very different attributes to Dan, and in his own right is an outstanding player. Having him back is a great boost for us.”