Alan Pardew hints at Loic Remy return

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew has hinted that Loic Remy could return from injury for Saturday's trip to Stoke City in the Premier League.

The French striker, who has scored 13 goals this season, has missed the Magpies' last five matches with a calf problem.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tim Krul is also in line for a recall at the Britannia Stadium this weekend following a knee injury.

"We've got to make sure everybody's available," Pardew is quoted as saying by Goal.com. "Maybe we'll have Loic back, maybe Tim will be back.

"Loic is not far away - it will be a boost for the squad if we can get him back in and around us. Hopefully, we can for Stoke because that's a big game for us. We have lost two heavily at home."

Newcastle are currently in ninth place in the Premier League table.