Newcastle United handed £25m injury boost v Borussia Dortmund as training ground footage emerges

Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock joined in full training ahead of Wednesday night’s Champions League fixture at home to Borussia Dortmund (kick-off 8pm).

The 24-year-old has been on the sidelines for the last five months after he first sustained a hamstring injury against Brighton & Hove Albion in May.

Willock was initially scheduled to return in pre-season but suffered a setback. He then picked up a fresh Achilles issue in August which further delayed his comeback.

Magpies’ head coach Eddie Howe confirmed last week Willock had resumed training but Saturday’s 4-0 win over Crystal Palace came too soon.

Speaking on Friday, Howe said: “I want him back! Of course, we have to be sensible. He’s trained this week for the first time back with the group. It’s probably a bit early for him to be involved in the matchday squad but he’s getting closer. He’s a huge player for us.”

Howe is set to provide another update later this afternoon when he addresses the media at St James’ Park after the former Arsenal midfielder was captured in full training by the Sky Sports News cameras.

Willock’s return will be hugely welcomed by Howe, who is facing the prospect of a midfield crisis in the coming weeks with Bruno Guimaraes one yellow card away from serving a one-match suspension and Sandro Tonali under investigation for alleged illegal betting activity.

Willock made 43 appearances in all competitions last season as Newcastle qualified for the Champions League.