Lejeune still on the road to recovery

NEWCASTLE United defender Florian Lejeune is now shooting on goal as he continues to recover from injuring his anterior cruciate ligament.

The Frenchman suffered the setback during pre-season and underwent an operation - but is still set to miss the most of the season as he works back to full fitness.

The 27-year-old has headed to Spain for recovery and keeps fans updated on his process through social media and has shared videos on his training regime.

This week the centre-back has been dribbling with the ball and shooting on goal as he works up the strength in his knee.

Despite only making 24 appearances last season, Lejeune established himself in the United starting line-up and won plaudits for his calm and assured performances on the ball, his passing ability particularly endearing him to supporters.

Many also shared the view he helped bring on Jamaal Lascelles, United’s captain looking a more rounded player alongside the former Eibar man.

Yet a silver lining on Lejeune’s injury is the arrival of Federico Fernandez from Swansea City.

The Argentinian defender, who playeed under Rafa Benitez at Napoli, has fitted into the void left by Lejeune and has impressed with his passing, communication and leadership.

Despite the terrible start to the season, Fernandez’s displays have been a much-needed positive, the former Swans centre-back filling the void alongside Lascelles nicely.

Benitez speaking about Fernandez after the 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace: “He is doing well.

“He is a player with experience, helping the team in defence because he understands the game, knows the Premier League and was with us at

Napoli, so he knows what we want to do. He is a good addition.”

Stats show Fernandez is becoming a key player for United, the 29-year-old making the thirdmost clearances this season for the side so far with 24 - trailing only Paul Dummett and Lascelles.

The Argentinian also made six key tackles, had 61 touches and made 95 passes in the four games he has played.