Positive injury update as Newcastle United star sends three-word message ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Elliot Anderson is nearing a much-needed Newcastle United return after missing four months through injury.

The Whitley Bay native has not featured since the 4-0 win over Crystal Palace in October. A stress fracture in his back has sidelined Anderson for 22 games despite an initial two-month timeline for the setback.

In that time, the 21-year-old has watched on as Newcastle crashed out of Europe and slid down the Premier League table. As a local player, he also missed the opportunity to sample his first Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland last month.

The burden in midfield has been placed on Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley. Little to zero rest for the trio is credited by many as a key reason behind Newcastle’s downfall in recent months.

Alongside Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Joelinton have missed most of the campaign. But the youngster returning should provide much-needed respite for Eddie Howe ahead of the run-in.

While he did not confirm his return, an Instagram post appeared to show Anderson in first-team training. His story, captioned “final few steps”, pictured him carrying a goal post while dressed in Newcastle training gear.

Howe will likely provide an update on the midfielder when he faces the media tomorrow ahead of the trip to Nottingham Forest. One player not expected to travel is Anthony Gordon, who picked up a foot injury last weekend.

Harvey Barnes’ return was blemished by Gordon’s setback as he was pictured leaving St James’ Park in a protective boot. It is understood that the problem is not severe but enough to rule him out against Forest.