Hughton hopeful on Simpson

Simpson: On loan at Newcastle

Newcastle manager Chris Hughton hopes Manchester United will not recall Danny Simpson from his loan.

United are in the midst of a defensive crisis and had to play midfield pair Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher as centre-backs against Wolfsburg in the UEFA Champions League in midweek.

Right-back Simpson is due to stay at St James' Park until January although the Red Devils could bring him back to Old Trafford at any point.

The 22-year-old has made 17 appearances for the Magpies so far this season and has been an important part of the side that are performing well in the Championship.

"The agreement for Danny was from one transfer window to the next and that means until January 1," Hughton told the Evening Chronicle.

"At this moment we still have Danny. What we are doing at the moment is assessing our options.

"We're not expecting him to go back at any stage up until January 1 and then we see what happens."

Newcastle take on Barnsley in the Championship on Saturday as they look to extend their impressive lead at the top of the table.