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Rafa Benitez handed huge boost ahead of Newcastle's crucial clash with Sunderland
NEWCASTLE have been handed a major boost with Chancel Mbemba reportedly fit for Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby with Sunderland.
Fabricio Coloccini and Chancel Mbemba could return for Newcastle this weekend
Mbemba, who moved to St James' Park in the summer for £8.4million, has been out with a heel injury since February 3.
The Congo international attempted to play through the pain barrier against Everton, but he ended up causing himself a long term injury.
But according to the Daily Mirror he could now return alongside fellow centre-back Fabricio Coloccini this weekend.
Coloccini has been out with a calf injury he suffered during the Magpies mid-season training camp.
Benitez could now risk both of his star defenders this weekend as he searches for his first win as Newcastle boss.
The Spaniard was forced to play a makeshift back four in his first game in charge at Leicester on monday night, with Jack Colback playing alongside Steven Taylor and Jamaal Lascelles in defence.