Elliott returns to Magpies

Former Newcastle defender Robbie Elliott has returned to the club as a member of Kevin Keegan’s backroom staff.

The 34-year-old, who ended his playing career at Hartlepool last season, has taken up the position of strength and conditioning coach under senior fitness coach Mark Hulse.

Elliott made 188 senior appearances for his home-town club in two spells at St James’ Park and played under Keegan during his first reign as manager.

He returned under Sir Bobby Robson in the summer of 2001 and spent five more years on Tyneside before heading for neighbours Sunderland and then Leeds.