Speed injury shocker

By Matthew Jones
August 23 2002

Gary Speed has recovered from a knee injury and is set to return to United's side for Saturday's lunchtime date with Manchester City.

Gary Speed has recovered from a knee injury and is set to return to United's side for Saturday's lunchtime date with Manchester City.

Wales skipper Speed has missed the Magpies' games against FK Zeleznicar and West Ham but he is expected to return at the expense of Jermaine Jenas.

Jenas has been impressive for the Magpies so far this season, but Sir Bobby Robson looks set to bring the experienced Speed back into the side.

Defender Andy O'Brien has recovered from his shin problem, but the boss is unlikely to make any more changes to the side that has kept two clean sheets this season.

Laurent Robert (back) and Craig Bellamy (knee) have been left out of the squad again due to injury, but Robson says that both players could be back in action against Liverpool a week on Monday.

"Craig Bellamy played in a behind-closed-doors friendly yesterday and I could probably get half a game out of him if I needed to, but I won't play him until I need him.

"Laurent is a little but behind Craig, but it won't surprise me if both are involved against Liverpool," said Robson.
Kick-off 12:15pm.