Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says he can have no complaints about Matt Targett's application since he returned from a heel injury.
The former Southampton left-back has made just four Premier League starts in his first full season at the club following his arrival initially on loan from Aston Villa last term. Targett started the season in Howe's team but then suffered a dead leg in only the second match with his campaign then hindered by a heel bone injury.
Targett is now facing a fight to get past Dan Burn with the Blyth lad establishing himself as Howe's first-choice in that position this term. Burn had fans singing his name during the 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers after a spirited and full-blooded performance.
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When asked about Targett's chances of adding to those four starts, Howe, speaking in the build-up to the clash at Nottingham Forest, said: "He is pushing. He has trained very well since he has came back to full fitness.
"He has been really consistent. He is pushing and he is a top quality player."
The 27-year-old made a three-minute cameo after coming off the bench during the 2-0 defeat against Man City in his first appearance since last November. Targett started pre-season with hopes of an England call-up after being tracked by Scotland last season, but so far has been unable to truly stake his claim.
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