Newcastle United midfielder issue four-word injury update

Newcastle United youngster Joe White has revealed he is edging closer to full fitness after overcoming a groin injury.

The 19-year-old has endured a frustrating start to the campaign having featured in just two of the under-23s’ seven opening games.

White, however, was called up to first team training this week and was pictured alongside Chris Wood, a photo which he captioned “fitness is coming back”.

The Carlisle-born midfielder made his non-competitive debut last year when he appeared in pre-season friendlies at Rotherham United and Burton Albion.

With White on the radar of a number of clubs, including Celtic, Rangers, Leeds United and Chelsea, United tied him down to a new long-term deal in March.

White spent the second half of last season on loan at League Two side Hartlepool United, where he made 16 appearances.

Speaking in December last year, Howe said: “I’ve been very impressed. I saw him playing for the development squad, and he performed really well. He’s a talented player.”