Kieran Trippier's response to Newcastle injury return question

Kieran Trippier insists he is 'feeling good' about his recovery from injury when asked about his potential return for Newcastle United. The Magpies full-back enjoyed a sensational start to life at St James' Park, but is currently sidelined after suffering a foot injury in the victory against Aston Villa last month.

Eddie Howe has hailed Trippier's leadership qualities in the dressing room since the 31-year-old became the first signing of the new era on Tyneside, and the defender has continued to travel with the squad for recent matchdays. The England international has undergone surgery to address the metatarsal injury, and the club are yet to give an estimated return date.

Howe has spoken of his hope of being able to call upon Trippier before the end of the season, and the right-back insists he does not want to 'rush' a potential return. However, the former Atletico Madrid and Tottenham defender is 'positive' about his recovery and is keen to return to action sooner rather than later.

READ MORE: Joelinton anger shows how Newcastle mentality's changed after Ciaran Clark's unintentional gift

Trippier told the True Geordie podcast: "I'm feeling good. Obviously [I'm] disappointed with the injury because of the start I had with Newcastle. I was going through a good moment, but these things happen.

"I'm positive about the injury, it's just about fighting now and getting fit because I want to get back on the pitch and hopefully soon.

"It was my fifth metatarsal so I had to have surgery, I had to have a bolt in it. But like I said, the surgeon is happy and my physio is happy so that makes me a little better.

When pressed about a potential timeframe for his return, Trippier replied: "It's different. Some players have