Barton close to comeback

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton could return for the final five games of the season.

The 26-year-old has not figured since fracturing a metatarsal in the 2-1 defeat at former club Manchester City on January 28.

However, caretaker boss Chris Hughton is hoping to have him back at the end of next month.

He told nufcTV: “It’s very much the case that we are looking at having Joey back for the last four or five matches.

“It’s been very frustrating for him and for us as well because he’s a quality player.

“We have to cope with that, but when we get him back, that will be a big bonus for us.”

Newcastle’s final five games of a difficult campaign are Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Fulham at home and trips to Liverpool and Aston Villa.