Jonas Gutierrez wants top-10 finish for Newcastle after return

Jonas Gutierrez has targeted a top 10 finish in the Premier League with Newcastle after returning to the squad for the 1-0 win against Aston Villa.

The 31-year-old was fit to return after a 17-month absence following his successful battle against testicular cancer and was given a brilliant reception by the St James’ Park crowd before kick-off.

Gutierrez did not get on the field in the 1-0 win but is determined to help John Carver’s side climb up the table in the remaining weeks of the season.

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He told Sky Sports: “It’s a big step to be back in the squad and involved in all the training with the team. I’m here to help the team and it’s import I continue to build my fitness.

“I feel really good but then you have to get games. I’m going to enjoy and try and do my best.

“If I get a minute or 10 minutes that will improve my level but the most important thing is the team win. We need to at least finish in the top 10.”

Gutierrez has not played in the Premier League since featuring while on loan at Norwich last April but he sees his return as a second chance and is enjoying every moment.

“It’s been a long time since I was last involved,” the Argentine added. “I’m happy to be back but the most important thing is the three points for the team. That’s the important point of the day.

“I think this is a second chance. When you have an illness like I had to go through you start thinking differently in life so I enjoy every moment.”