Jonathon Woodgate starts Newcastle training

By Matthew Jones
February 13 2003

Jonathon Woodgate who has been sidelined with a thigh injury since moving to St James' Park for £9,000,000 has finially started training with the Newcastle squad. He should be match-fit soon.

Jonathan Woodgate has finally taken part in his first Newcastle training session after recovering from his thigh injury.

The England international has been sidelined with the problem eversince he was signed from Leeds United for £9m last month.

However, controversial defender is now nearing full fitness and has been able to take part in his first full training session with the Magpies squad although he will not be able to make his full debut until the visit of Chelsea on 1 March.

There were suggestions that Woodgate could be fit to face his former club at Elland Road on Saturday week although Leeds have now revealed that there is a clause in the player's contract stating he cannot play against them this season.