Huge boost: Newcastle handed much-needed lift ahead of WHU clash, Howe surely buzzing - opinion

Newcastle United are set to have left-back Matt Targett available for their game away at West Ham United on Saturday afternoon after the Englishman missed the Magpies’ victory over Aston Villa last week.

Having been ineligible to face his parent side last weekend, Targett is set to be available for selection once again as Eddie Howe’s side look to extend their excellent form to four consecutive wins in the top-flight.

The left-back swapped Villa Park for St.James’ Park late in the January transfer window after Villa boss Steven Gerrard secured the signing of left-back Lucas Digne from Everton.

This week, the 26-year-old told TalkSport about his departure, having been voted the club’s Player’s Player of the Season last term.

“It was a difficult decision (to leave),” said Targett. “Last season, especially, I was the only left-back.

“I knew the club wanted to sign a left-back. But I was quite surprised when they signed someone like Lucas Digne. Obviously, he was out there, at the time. The club had to do what they had to do.

“It was quite hard to take to sign someone of that calibre. But if that’s where the club wants to go, then I completely respect that.

“At the same time, I am 26. I don’t want to be sitting on the bench. I want to look back on my career and I have played as many Premier League games as I can possible, so that’s one of the main reasons.”

With his side 17th, there is still plenty of work to be done for Eddie Howe’s Newcastle outfit. Although they’re out of the relegation zone, just four points separate the Magpies from 18th place Norwich City, although the Tyneside club have a game in hand.

Rock bottom Burnley, however, have two games in hand on the Geordies whilst being seven points behind them; the job