Lejeune on course for comeback after coming through reserves run-out

RECOVERING STOPPER MAKES HIS MARK

BEN Dawson says Florian Lejeune got through his first game since July unscathed after playing his part in Newcastle reserves’ 2-1 win over Norwich City.

The Toon coach was impressed by the Frenchman’s professionalism after dropping down to the Academy to take part in a training session with his younger colleagues.

However, the good news is the former Eibar defender is on course for a first-team comeback, Rafa Benitez watching on from the stands at Whitley Park.

After the game Dawson provided an update on Lejeune after he played just 45 minutes.

He said: “He was very good and he trained with us on Sunday.

“He was very good and attentive in terms of taking on information on set-plays and stuff.

“It is only a short turnaround after his operation but to get back on the pitch and be commanding is great.

“Florian was very calm and not too vocal in the dressing room but Florian Lejeune in action on Monday

he offered little bits of information here and there. He was very calm and relaxed.”

Lejeune started alongside United’s talented England youth international Kelland Watts in the heart of defence, with the youngster taking on the captain’s armband for the night.

Watts admits it is all part of the learning curve after emerging as one of the club’s best young players in recent years.

The 19-year-old has been one of the star players of the season so far for the second string and, under the watchful eye of Benitez, barely put a foot wrong at the back.

Watts said: “The team spirit we have means even when we go a goal down we don’t panic, we always have a strong reaction.

“To get back in the game before half-time was important but to get the second was a bonus.

“After half-time we knew if we shut them out in the second half we would get the win. That was our main focus.

“We still stopped them in the second half when they were looking for a goal.”

Reflecting on being handed the captaincy, Watts said: “It was great to get it for the night.

“Owen Bailey has done a great job this season but when he found out he was not in the squad for me to step in just before the game was a proud moment.

“I captained the under-18s last season but to captain the second string is a great feeling.”

Watts also had the invaluable experience of playing alongside Lejeune.

He added: “It was great because he is a fantastic player who has come