Florian Lejeune opens up on his comeback – and playing for Steve Bruce

The Newcastle United defender made his first Premier League appearance in eight months at the weekend.

And Lejeune – who returned from long-term injury in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at St James’s Park – is set to face Manchester United at Old Trafford this evening.

The 28-year-old ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in April – he had scored the same injury to his right knee last year – and had surgery in Rome.

“It was difficult,” said Lejeune. “It was my second injury. I worked very hard for eight months. Now I hope no more injuries, and I keep playing.”

Lejeune played the full 90 minutes against Palace, beaten by Miguel Almiron’s first United goal.

“It was strange,” said Lejeune. “When I was first on the pitch, it was like it was new for me! I can do more. It wasn’t my best game, but, for my first game after eight months, I’m happy. I’m very happy to be back and to play and to get the win.”

Lejeune was exhausted when he left the pitch at the final whistle.

“It’s normal, I’m tired,” said Lejeune, signed from Eibar in the summer of 2017. “But it was a little bit easier in the second half. The first 15 minutes was a little bit difficult.”

Almiron struck late in the game. Lejeune said: “It was amazing. It was a difficult game against a very good team. I’m happy for the game and the three points. The stadium was incredible.”

Newcastle beat Man United 1-0 at St James’s Park earlier this season. Lejeune said: “It will be very difficult. If we can get one point or three points, it will be good for us.”

The game will have a special significance for head coach Bruce, who won three Premier League titles with Man United during his playing career.

Lejeune, signed by Rafa Benitez, is enjoying playing under Bruce. He said: “I’m happy to work with him. He’s a good manager. He speaks with me. He tried to speak with all the players.”