Newcastle United striker Leon Best believes that he will play a part in his side's final few matches of the season.

The 25-year-old has been on the sidelines since February with a knee injury.

Despite admitting that he has not even started running yet, Best is adamant that he is on course to pull on a Newcastle shirt again this campaign.

"I start running soon, so hopefully I'll be back," Best told the Shields Gazette. "My aim's to be back this season, and I'm definitely going to push to be back.

"I'm due to see the specialist again, and I think he'll tell me when I can do other things.

"I'd love to get a couple of games, which would give me a chance to get in the squad for next season, when we'd love to be in Europe."

The Republic of Ireland international has scored four league goals this season