Initially, it was thought that Newcastle United would be without Mikel Merino for a significant period of time with a back problem.

However, just one month later, the midfielder is expected to return to the pitch.

While speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Watford at St James' Park, manager Rafael Benitez provided an update on Merino's fitness.

The 21-year-old moved to the North-East outfit in the summer initially on a loan deal from Borussia Dortmund.

Newcastle, though, were so impressed with Merino's early appearances that they opted to get a permanent five-year deal done on October 13.

Interestingly, the Spaniard's injury absence has affected results on the pitch, with the team failing to pick up a point since.

Newcastle have lost to Burnley, Bournemouth and Manchester United in the league during that time.

It is safe to say that the fans are pleased to see Merino return to the squad.

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