'What a player!': Steve Bruce reacts to Newcastle United defender's performance

Lejeune started yesterday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at St James’s Park. The defender had been out since April, when he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the same fixture.

Bruce, United’s head coach, purposely held back the 28-year-old, who has been in training for the past two months.

“Lejeune played first game in months – what a good layer he looks,” said Bruce. “I can’t tell you how long he’s knocked on the door. We’ve tried to restrict him – he’s done two cruciates. He’s a good footballer.”

Lejeune said: “It’s a really great feeling to be back playing again, especially after eight months – it’s been a lot of hard work. I’m very pleased to come back – I needed it.”