Pundit Kevin Phillips believes Matt Ritchie's return to the first-team squad is "brilliant news" for Newcastle United.
Ritchie has returned to action last month after a long term absence due to his ankle injury.
The Scotland international hoped for a quick come back, that was delayed till the New Year, following the surgery he required.
The 30-year-old made his return as a substitute at Rochdale in the FA Cup third-round.
Speaking on Ritchie's return, Phillips told Football Insider:
"He’s a huge character. When you’re scrapping relegation you want players in your squad that are good in the dressing room, they give everyone a lift. He reminds me of a player that probably likes to banter on the training ground and it takes the pressure off of other things, so yes, certainly, having him back is brilliant news. Let’s not forget to he’s a talented player. At one point it looked like he could be leaving but no, he stayed. Unfortunately injured for a long time, he’s back now and Newcastle could kick on because I see them being a better squad and players than three or four teams in the Premier League."