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Chris Watson

Steve Bruce gets big Newcastle United lift ahead of Leeds United clash

Newcastle United have been handed a big boost ahead of their Premier League showdown with Leeds United.

The Magpies take on Marcelo Bielsa's side at Elland Road on Wednesday evening (6pm kick-off).

In the build-up to the Leeds match, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce has revealed that summer signing Ryan Fraser is back in contention following an injury lay-off.

The former Bournemouth winger has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury last month but is now apparently back to full fitness.

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"Ryan Fraser is OK," said Bruce. "It has just been injury and he has trained for the past week and a bit.

"He has been interrupted, because of the training ground closure (due to the recent coronavirus outbreak).

"He is fully fit and like a new signing for us."

Federico Fernandez is also available again, having been among those who tested positive for Covid-19.

Bruce has suggested he could make changes to the side that beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at St James' Park on Saturday.

Asked about player availability, the manager said: "Fede Fernandez revealed himself he had the virus.

"I am looking at the three or four who played at the weekend.

"The one thing I am looking at is fatigue.

"With that in mind I will look to make two or three changes."

Midfielder Isaac Hayden filled in at the back for Newcastle against West Brom, giving his manager an interesting dilemma.

"I thought the performance of Isaac was terrific," Bruce added. "It gives me food for thought.

"It's a silver lining. We will see how he is.

"He is our fittest player at the club and shows this thing has no boundaries."

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