Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor has admitted that he is relishing a return to action next season.

The 26-year-old defender has been out of action since December after rupturing his Achilles against Chelsea, and he has targeted a return to pre-season training in July.

"It's going to be a long, hard recovery. I know some people say it's the worst injury you can get as a footballer, but I'm taking it in my stride," Taylor told The Journal.

"I'm relishing the chance to come back and I can't wait to come back fitter, stronger and better than I was before. I'm hoping to be involved in the start of the next pre-season."

Taylor has made 202 appearances for the Magpies.