Enrique expected back at Toon

Newcastle full-back and Liverpool target Jose Enrique is expected to return for pre-season training with his team-mates on Monday.

After months of speculation over the 25-year-old Spaniard's future, no bid has yet been received for a man who has 12 months of his existing contract left to run.

Enrique is yet to respond to an offer manager Alan Pardew has described as "fantastic", and while the Magpies know they may have a fight on their hands to keep him, they are refusing to admit defeat.

Assistant boss John Carver told the Evening Chronicle: "As far as we are aware, Jose will be back on Monday - I have been told nothing to the reverse - and Jose will be getting a warm welcome like he always does.

"I know he will give us 100%, like he always does, and he wouldn't dream of letting anybody down.

"As far as I know, everybody will be back, including Jose and Joey Barton, and it will be great to see them again.

"They are all still under contract and will be ready to start preparing for the new season with Newcastle United."

Source: TeamTalk

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