Matt Ritchie returns to Newcastle United training following knee injury

Newcastle United midfielder Matt Ritchie has returned to training this week following his knee injury.

The 32-year-old has been out of action since January 8, when he suffered the problem during their 1-0 loss against Cambridge United in the FA Cup.

Since that point, Eddie Howe's team have been undefeated, which has seen the club climb up to 14th in the Premier League table as they prepare for the run in this season.

However, the squad will now be boosted by Ritchie's return, as he has been pictured back with the group during training sessions this week as Newcastle get ready to face Southampton on Thursday night.

It is unknown whether or not he will be fit enough to start in that match, but the Scottish international is now back on the grass and pushing towards his return.

So far this season the winger has featured 16 times in the Premier League, but he is yet to open up his account in terms of goals.