Newcastle deny return for Real Madrid's Woodgate

Newcastle United have dismissed reports linking Real Madrid defender Jon Woodgate with a return to Tyneside.
 
The defender left the Magpies for Real Madrid in a £13.4m move in 2004 but his hopes of a regular first-team place have been hampered by injuries.

A Newcastle statement said: "The stories came as a surprise to us."

"Jonathan looks to be enjoying his time in Spain and we certainly haven't heard anything from Real, so it would seem the reports are just speculation."

The statement added: "He is someone who was very popular with staff and fans alike during his time at Newcastle and, as a person, he is always welcome any time he wants to visit St James'."

Woodgate made his latest comeback - from a calf injury - at the end of January.