Ameobi causing Roeder concern

Ameobi causing Roeder concern

Shola Ameobi has not yet returned to training and his continued absence is causing Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder some concern ahead of their Intertoto Cup campaign.

Newcastle took the decision to enter the Intertoto Cup in order to secure a route into Europe for next term, which has prompted an early return to training for the players.

Ameobi, though, only recently had an injection in his hip and is not yet ready to start training.

With Alan Shearer now retired, Michael Owen injured and Michael Chopra having moved on, Newcastle have a dearth of attacking options.

Should Ameobi fail to pass the doctor, Albert Luque and James Milner are likely to be asked to lead the line against either Keflavik or Lillestrom on July 15.