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ESPNsoccernet: England | |
Newcastle have been given a boost with the news that Hatem Ben Arfa could return from injury in time for the Premier League game at Fulham next Monday.
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Ben Arfa, 25, was injured during the Europa League draw with Maritimo and Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has already ruled the French midfielder out of their away game at Bordeaux on Thursday night.
But he confirmed he has a chance of bolstering Newcastle's injury-hit ranks against Fulham.
"He won't have a chance for Bordeaux, but we think he'll have a chance for Fulham," Pardew said.
With countryman Yohan Cabaye already ruled out until February through injury and Newcastle struggling to balance the dual responsibility of Premier League and European football, Ben Arfa's return will be welcomed, as will the increasing fitness of Gabriel Obertan who could also be in line to come back for the game at Craven Cottage.