Newcastle boss Alan Pardew expects both Danny Simpson and Tim Krul to return to training ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Reading.
Simpson limped out of the game against Aston Villa on September 2 with a hamstring problem, while Krul has been sidelined since picking up an elbow injury on international duty.
Pardew is now pleased to report that both players are closing in on comebacks, with Simpson perhaps ready to feature against the Royals.
Krul is expected to be given another couple of weeks to recover fully, though, with Steve Harper in fine form during the Dutchman's absence.
Pardew told the Evening Chronicle: "Danny will train Thursday or Friday all being well.
"Tim is looking for the all-clear on Wednesday to start back."
The return to fitness of Krul and Simpson will come as a huge boost to Pardew, who is also set to welcome Cheick Tiote and Fabricio Coloccini back into his starting XI for Wednesday's Capital One Cup match against Manchester United.
