Speed aiming for Hammers visit

By Matthew Jones
August 16 2002

Gary Speed insists he could yet be fit for Newcastle's opening Premiership game of the season against West Ham on Monday.

Gary Speed insists he could yet be fit for Newcastle's opening Premiership game of the season against West Ham on Monday.

The Wales skipper was officially ruled out of action for a fortnight when he injured his knee
in training last Saturday.

But Speed is busting a gut to be back in the Magpies' midfield the best part of a week early to face the Hammers at St James' Park.

"The bruising on my knee is going down and I'm walking a lot better now, so that will hopefully continue over the next few days," said Speed.

"I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I'll be OK for the West Ham game. Having a couple of extra days to prepare for the game should help.

"But if I don't make Monday, I'll be back in time for the game at Manchester City the following Saturday."