Dyer could return to first team

Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer could return to Premiership action this weekend after successfully negotiating his comeback from injury.

The 25-year-old, who has missed his side’s last four games with a hamstring problem, played 70 minutes of last night’s reserve team 4-1 defeat at Darlington and could now be available for selection for Saturday’s vital Premiership clash with Everton at St James’ Park.

It was Dyer’s first run-out since he damaged the hamstring late in the 4-1 UEFA Cup defeat of Real Mallorca on March 11, an injury which cost him his place in the return leg as well as the league victory over Charlton on Tyneside and single-goal defeats at both Tottenham and Bolton.

Manager Bobby Robson will be keen to have one of his most inventive players back at his disposal after trying youngster Darren Ambrose and the misfiring Lee Bowyer in his place.

Dyer’s presence as the season reaches its climax could prove a key factor in United’s hopes of achieving their aims.

The Everton game is followed by next Thursday evening’s UEFA Cup quarter-final, first leg trip to PSV Eindhoven and then leaders Arsenal due at St James’ three days later, before the return meeting with the Dutchmen.