Manchester United manager David Moyes has confirmed that defenders Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling are not far from a return to first-team action as they are now back in training.

Moyes said that the pair would bring much-needed enthusiasm to his defence, but wants his side to perform well against Newcastle United at the weekend even if they do not play.

"We have got Evans and Smalling back in training," Moyes told BBC Sport. "They are on the way back and we have missed them. We want their youth and enthusiasm.

"We have to go to Newcastle and put on a good performance, get the three points and gain some momentum."

United are currently seventh in the Premier League.