Newcastle United journalist Dominic Scurr has given his reaction to some injury news that has now emerged involving Kieran Trippier.

The Lowdown: Gym work

Trippier recently posted a video of himself on Instagram, in which he is sitting on an exercise bike, wearing no protective boot.

He captioned it: 'Stepping training up, can't wait to be back!'

The right-back has also revealed that he is making 'really good progress' since joining up with the squad in Dubai, suggesting that he could now return perhaps earlier than first thought.

The Latest: Scurr reacts

Taking to Twitter, The Shields Gazette journalist Scurr has now given his reaction to Trippier's progress, claiming that the fact that he is closing on a return is a 'huge boost' for the St. James' Park faithful:

"Great to see Kieran Trippier stepping up his recovery back in the gym without a protective boot.

"Hasn't been as big a miss for NUFC as expected but the fact he's closing in on a return is a huge boost.

"Set to be back in contention next month."

The Verdict: Big boost

The fact that Trippier could return to action as early as next month is a big boost for Eddie Howe and his side, as there were initially fears that he may not even play again this season following his injury.

The former Tottenham Hotspur defender is currently ranking as their best player in the Premier League this term, while he has averaged more tackles, interceptions and crosses per game than any of his teammates so far (WhoScored).

Nonetheless, if the North East club are to make sure of their safety, then Trippier simply has to be in the team come next month's fixtures.

In other news, find out what 'big' NUFC update Liam Kennedy has now reacted to here!