Ryan Taylor is closing in on a surprise return to Newcastle United's starting lineup when the Magpies take on Wolverhampton Wanderers next weekend.

There were initial fears that the 27-year-old could be sidelined for a lengthy period after he was stretchered off with a leg injury during Newcastle's 2-1 win over Aston Villa almost a fortnight ago.

"I've had a few tough days with [Dave Henderson, Newcastle physio], but I've come through with no problems so I am hoping to be back in training with the lads on Monday morning," Taylor told the club's official website.

"I'm itching to be back if I'm honest because there's nothing worse than being out injured. It wasn't anywhere near as bad as first feared, thankfully. I went off and there was a lot of precaution being took to make sure that I was fine."

The North East side have a weekend off due to the FA Cup fifth-round fixtures.