Alan Smith has returned to training after a serious ankle injury sustained in the Tyne-Wear derby back in January, but is unlikely to figure in the Newcastle team this season. The 30-year-old midfielder wore a protective boot during his rehabilitation and was running again at the club's Benton training base last week.
"During his injury Alan has played a big part off the field for us," assistant boss John Carver told the Chronicle.
"Just because a player is injured it doesn't mean they don't have a part to play, and Alan has been an excellent example of that."
Smith is nearing full fitness under the watchful eye of fitness coach Simon Tweddle but his agent, Alex Black, confirmed he is unlikely to feature in the Magpies' last three games.
"Alan has been running with Simon Tweddle at the training ground. He's doing well," said Black.
"There's a slight chance he could play again this season but it could well be next season when we see him back."
