United ready to welcome back Taylor & Bassong

Newcastle United interim manager Chris Hughton has refused to rule out defenders Steven Taylor, and Sebastien Bassong from starting in the game against Chelsea a week away.

The duo suffered injuries and had to be substituted during the 3-1 defeat by Arsenal at St. James' Park last weekend, and looked set to be out for a lengthy period, however, United's medics are working night and day to mend their ailments in a bid to have them ready for The Blues on April 4, 2009.

Hughton said: "We are continuing to assess Steven and Sébastien Bassong and we`re hopeful they could be available for Chelsea,"

"What we haven`t done at this moment is rule either of them from making the Chelsea game."

"We are looking for an improvement over the next week or so and if we get that, they`ve got a chance but we`re not ruling either of them out 100%."

The former Spurs assistant manager also added: 'With both of these injuries the assessment is going to be over the next few days."

"And we`ll know after that if one or both of them have a chance for the Chelsea game."

Newcastle United fans will be keeping their fingers crossed about the duo, as both showed tremendous ability and resilience against Arsenal - qualities vital if United are to get anything out of the Chelsea game.

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