Newcastle have played eleven games since the signing of Michael Owen, but the England international has only played in six. But he is expected to feature in the Carling Cup clash with Wigan on Wednesday after missing both the games against Chelsea and Everton since the last international break.
The groin problem which has dogged him for weeks seems to have cleared up.
But Magpies assistant boss Alan Murray is adamant the 25-year-old should play a part against the Latics and told The Journal: "We're very hopeful Michael will be ready for Wednesday.
"We're just being very careful and making sure we're not going to lose him for a long period of time."