Bowyer returns to action

LEE BOWYER has targeted the Tyne-Tees derby against Middlesbrough this weekend to mark his return to first-team action with Newcastle.

The midfielder has been out of action since the end of November when he picked up a hip injury.

However, the former Leeds and West Ham player has turned out for Newcastle’s second string in their last two matches and is now looking to force his way back into Bobby Robson’s plans.

“It’s been frustrating,” admitted Bowyer, who scored his first goal for the club that he joined in summer during the2-0 Pontins Leaguewin over Doncaster last week.

“I thought I was getting back to full fitness and playing quite well when it happened.

“It was a weird one, but then again I don’t seem to get normal injuries.”