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Newcastle United players were put through their paces at the club’s training ground as Rafa Benitez prepares his side for the visit of Aston Villa.

The Magpies welcome to St James’ Park, a Villa side out of form and hurting from a 3-1 defeat to Barnsley in midweek.

Benitez will hope his side can seize the opportunity to further their lead at the top of the table as Brighton and Huddersfield Town continue the chase for the automatic promotion places.

The Spaniard was happy to welcome Vurnon Anita back to full training following the Dutchman’s ankle injury against Brentford last month. The midfielder, out of contract in the summer, will hope to be back in contention in the next few weeks.

However that good news was soured by the revelation that Isaac Hayden will be out for at least four weeks following an ankle operation.

That means he will miss important clashes against promotion chasing sides Brighton, Reading and Huddersfield in what will be a vital month for United.

Nevertheless there were plenty of smiles as Benitez watched his side at the Darsley Park base.

Pop the kettle on take a look at our training gallery. United play Aston Villa on Monday evening.