Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that Jonjo Shelvey returning from injury is a 'big boost' for Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Early return...

It was reported back in August that Shelvey was set to be out for at least three months, after having surgery on a hamstring injury.

He was not expected to return until after the FIFA World Cup in Qatar finishes, but made his return off of the bench in the 2-1 win away at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League last weekend.

The Latest: 'Big boost'

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones has claimed that it is a 'big boost' for the St. James' Park outfit to have Shelvey returning to the team after injury, as he is a player that Eddie Howe 'can rely on':

"It's a big boost because it gives them another option that he knows he can rely on and that fits in with what this team are doing. That's what Howe needs right now. He needs consistency and reliability, especially getting towards the pause in the season."

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The Verdict: Great option

Shelvey gives Howe another great option in the squad, especially given the number of injuries to first-team players that he has had to deal with.

The 30-year-old was a key player under Howe last season, playing in every match bar one in the Premier League when he was available, and even captained the team towards the latter stages (Transfermarkt).

With so many new players coming in since the takeover, Shelvey's experience is vital in the dressing room, and to have him back sooner than first expected will no doubt push the Magpies on in their quest to secure a perhaps unlikely UEFA Champions League place.