On Thursday afternoon, Newcastle United’s social media team posted up a few images from player training this week and eagle-eyed fans noticed that one man was back out on the grass.
The unexpected spot on the training pitch was centre-half Florian Lejeune.
The 27-year-old defender is yet to feature in the Premier League campaign of 2018/19 for manager Rafa Benitez having suffered a cruciate ligament injury that required surgery at the beginning of our pre-season campaign, but few were expecting him to return this quickly.
Whilst I imagine he’s a good few weeks off still and I’d expect him to get at least two Under 23 games under his belt before he comes back into proper contention, he seems to be ahead of schedule and that can only be a boost to Benitez as we look forward for the rest of the season.
Reacting to the news on social media about his return, fans were predictably delighted to see him back amongst the rest of the squad.
Lejeune also back in full training.
Incredible return in record space of time.
Exceptional defender and excellent news for all connected with #NUFC.
— The NUFC Optimist (@Optimistoon) November 22, 2018
@lejeune_florian good to see you back mate! https://t.co/IlFMMsGxxY
— Alix (@AlixGoddard) November 22, 2018
Never thought I'd live to see a time where Newcastle are spoiled for choice at CB, 4 quality options. Schar should be tried at CDM at some point IMO
— Barry (@Barry88SC) November 22, 2018
Can’t wait to see Lejeune back on the pitch in black and white ????????#NUFC
— JT (@JordanT513) November 22, 2018
he was turning into a gd player so lets not rush him back too early
— jimmy kelly (@xskye69x) November 22, 2018
lejeune schar fernandez – such a great back 3!
— Bri???????? (@Bri2889) November 22, 2018