Anthony Elanga injury update as Newcastle winger faces fitness wait
Anthony Elanga is making ‘good progress’ in his recovery from a thigh injury, but we may have to wait until December to see the winger back in action.
The 24-year-old has been sidelined since September, with Matthias Jaissle providing an encouraging update on his recovery ahead of Newcastle’s return to Premier League action.
However, despite his recovery work going smoothly, it sounds like he won’t be returning for a few weeks yet.
Elanga eyeing December return
According to Lee Ryder at The Chronicle, Elanga is targeting a return to action in December, suggesting he is likely miss at least another month as he continues his rehabilitation.
The Sweden international underwent an MRI scan last month after suffering the thigh injury. It was initially suggested by Keith Downie that he could be back soon after the international break, but it sounds like he’ll need more time.
Elanga has been spotted working in the gym at Newcastle’s training ground, The KNOX, as he looks to build up his fitness before returning to the pitch.
His last appearance came in our 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Millwall in September, bringing an unfortunate halt to his season after a flying start saw him score breakaway goals against Liverpool and Spurs.
Jaissle’s latest update on Elanga
Speaking about Elanga’s recovery on Thursday, Jaissle confirmed that the winger is progressing well and praised his mentality, while suggesting he could potentially return earlier than expected.
“Yeah, I had good conversations with him. He’s doing well, he’s progressing.
“As you probably know, it was a tough injury, a longer one, but he has a brilliant mentality, a real professional, so hopefully he can come back even a bit earlier than expected.”
The German had previously stressed the importance of managing Elanga’s recovery carefully, rather than rushing him back before he is ready.
“Hopefully it is not too bad but we are taking it step by step. We are counting on the medical department to bring him back as soon as possible.
“We are being smart in the process, it is a long season so we don’t want to hurry up too much. But also I want to have him back as soon as possible.”
With Elanga making encouraging progress, Newcastle will hope he can return to training in the coming weeks and work towards a comeback before Christmas.
December remains the reported target, but Jaissle’s latest comments suggest there is optimism surrounding the winger’s recovery.
