Elliot Fit To Start At Bournemouth

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Rob Elliot will start in goal for Newcastle United at AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, head coach Steve McClaren has confirmed.

The Republic of Ireland international stopper played with a thigh complaint last time out against Stoke City but still managed an impressive performance in keeping a clean sheet.

And while there was some concern that Elliot would not be fit to travel to the Vitality Stadium for this weekend's Barclays Premier League clash, McClaren revealed the 29-year-old will be guarding the Magpies' net once more. 

"He is fit to play," said the head coach, of the former Charlton custodian.

"We gave him enough time, rest and recovery. He has worked the last two days and trained with the team this morning (Friday).

"We have got a few injuries on the periphery but basically we are trying to get consistency in team selection, in play, style and performance.

"So as much as possible we are trying to keep the same team, and rotate around that."

McClaren also revealed that Dutch full-back has shaken off the knee injury that forced his off against the Potters six days ago.

However, there is not so good news for winger Rolando Aarons, who faces a few weeks on the sidelines following a knock in training.

"(Rolando) got a kick and twisted his ankle, had a scan and it's maybe three or four weeks.

"He's been a little unlucky with injuries. He's only a young man but needs to get some consistency and some performances but just keeps getting little knocks.

"They will clear up though and eventually he will come back and be a good player."