Alan Pardew hails Steven Taylor return

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew has admitted that Steven Taylor's return to action "is a big boost" for the Magpies.

The 26-year-old defender has not played since December after suffering an Achilles tendon injury, but has now returned to first-team training.

"I'm looking forward to having Steven running around and playing again. Having Steven back fit for pre-season is a big boost for us. He did very well last season before his injury," Pardew told the Evening Chronicle.

"He's an important player for us, and we want everyone fit for what's going to be a tough season. He's hoping to have an injury-free season, and hopefully he will."

Newcastle finished fifth in the Premier League last season.