Tuesday 23 February 2016 15:13, UK
Fabricio Coloccini could be fit to face Stoke next Wednesday, after scans showed the Newcastle captain's injury is only a slight calf strain.
It is understood the 34-year-old defender picked up the problem during a warm-down after the team's 2-1 friendly win over Norwegian side Lillestrom in Spain.
It was initially feared that the injury could keep Coloccini out for an extended period, but the club have confirmed that medical staff are now working towards having the Argentine fit for their next game against Stoke on Wednesday, March 2.
He sustained the injury comes not actually playing in the game. January signing Jonjo Shelvey captained the side in his absence.
The news will be welcomed by head coach Steve McClaren, as centre-back Chancel Mbemba continues to struggle with an ankle problem, while Steven Taylor has only just returned after over five months out of action.
However, McClaren could have a number of players back for the match, with defender Paul Dummett and midfielders Jack Colback, Vurnon Anita and Siem de Jong all pushing to be fit again.
Another player who is expected to miss out at the Britannia Stadium though is striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who suffered a knee injury prior to the team heading out to their La Manga training camp.
Newcastle are currently 18th in the Premier League table, although 17th placed Norwich are only above them on goal difference.
