Haidara feared for his season

Massadio Haidara feared his season had been ended by injury and is delighted to be back in contention at Newcastle United.

The French full-back was sidelined by a horror challenge from Wigan Athletic midfielder Callum McManaman on 17th March.

Fears were raised as to Haidara's future after being forced from the field on a stretcher, but scans revealed no serious damage.

That has allowed the 20-year-old to make a speedy recovery, and he is hoping to play a leading role in Newcastle's run-in after figuring in a Europa League clash with Benfica and taking a place on the bench for last Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland.

Haidara told the Evening Chronicle: "It's a real pleasure to be back from injury, I really think that my durability will be better now.

"I thought my season was over after what happened at Wigan, but I'm delighted to be able to play again this season.

"The team really needs all of the players available for the last few games, I'm ready and available to help the team."

On a weekend date with West Bromwich Albion in which Newcastle will attempt to close on the 40-point mark and top-flight safety, Haidara added: "We really need to win this game, we want to win it for the fans.

"If we can do that and stay in the Premier League this season, we will look to end it as high up the table as possible."