United keen to extend loan deal for Blues starlet

Feb 9 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

NEWCASTLE United are already planning to extend Patrick van Aanholt's loan from Chelsea following an impressive start to the teenager's time on Tyneside.

Van Aanholt, who joined the Magpies for an initial month’s spell, has put in two assured performances at left-back in the absence of Jose Enrique and looks an excellent prospect for the future.

With Enrique likely to be missing for at least another three weeks with a hamstring strain, van Aanholt will continue to be given first-team football – and Hughton revealed there is already an agreement in place with Chelsea to extend his stay if he wishes.

The 18-year-old has already spent time on loan at Coventry City in the Championship this season, although Newcastle may well have one eye on turning a temporary move into a permanent one, particularly if they go back up to the Premier League in May.

The young Dutchman is well thought of at Stamford Bridge, but he would fit into Newcastle’s transfer strategy and Hughton has been extremely impressed with him since he arrived as cover for Enrique a fortnight ago.

Meanwhile, Hughton believes Joey Barton is still a month away from playing competitive football after the midfielder returned to full training this week.

Barton has not played since September because of a serious foot injury, but his return will give the Magpies an embarrassment of riches in the centre of midfield.

It is a problem Hughton will welcome as he again defended the controversial 27-year-old’s behaviour since his £5.8m move from Manchester City.

He said: “The problem is he has missed a lot of football and when you have been out for as long as he has, the reality is you do not know when he will be back.

“Normally it will take a few weeks to get him up to speed, the pace of the training, and then of course, going into a game situation is completely different.

“He is back in training this week and we expect another three weeks after that and then we will assess him.

“The most important thing is to get him fit and to a stage where he is available. If he can play some part this season, then it is better than not having him at all.

“Mentally he is okay. Over the period of time he has been injured for four months, it is a difficult period for anyone when you are out.

“It is very frustrating and everything that goes with it, but he has handled it okay and he will be looking to get back.

“For the majority of the time he has been here, we have had no problems with Joey. He has been very good and very focused. We expect that to continue.”