Newcastle United set for injury boost ahead of Premier League opener

The Newcastle United midfielder missed last weekend’s final friendly against Stoke City with a knee problem. However, Shelvey is expected to be fit for Saturday’s behind-closed-doors Premier League game at the London Stadium along with captain Jamaal Lascelles, who has recovered from ankle surgery.

Ciaran Clark, Paul Dummett, Fabian Schar and Matty Longstaff remain sidelined along with long-term injury victims Martin Dubravka and Dwight Gayle, while Matt Ritchie is “touch and go” for the televised game.

“Jamaal’s all right, we think Jonjo’s all right,” said head coach Steve Bruce. “Maybe too early for Ciaran Clark and Dummy, who have been struggling since last Christmas. Matt Ritchie, touch and go.”

Romford-born Shelvey, a boyhood west Ham fan, was on target for a 3-2 win for Newcastle at the London Stadium last season. Federico Fernandez and Ciaran Clark also scored in the game.