Matt Targett has admitted the last few seasons at Newcastle United have been “difficult” after injuries and competition cost him his place in Eddie Howe’s first XI. Now on loan at Middlesbrough, the 29-year-old full-back is relishing the chance to reset his career in the Championship.
Targett, who initially joined Newcastle on loan from Aston Villa in January 2022 and helped them avoid relegation, made the move permanent that summer. But after early promise, his progress was derailed by major hamstring and Achilles injuries, as well as the rise of Dan Burn and Lewis Hall.
Reflecting on his struggles, Targett said: “Honestly, it’s difficult. When I first went there on loan it was incredible… then a couple more big injuries. Highs and lows. I played in the Champions League, that was a massive high. I was part of the squad that won the Carabao Cup. From a playing perspective it was tough.”
Injuries Take Their Toll
Targett’s most brutal setback came in November 2023, when he tore his hamstring just five minutes into a Carabao Cup tie against Manchester United. After four months out, he returned to training only to tear his Achilles weeks later, ruling him out for another extended spell.
“You get a chance to play in the cup and literally about three minutes in, I ruptured my hamstring and was out for four months. Then I got back training and had a tear in my Achilles. That was the toughest period.” — Matt Targett
He also revealed an unusual battle with eczema medication, which sidelined him temporarily due to anti-doping restrictions.
Fresh Start at Middlesbrough
Fully fit again after his first proper pre-season in years, Targett has joined Rob Edwards’ high-flying Middlesbrough, who top the Championship after four straight wins.
“Rob is very hands-on in training like Eddie,” Targett explained. “He’s still very young but I’m very impressed. It’s a chance for me to show what I can do as well, and hopefully me showing what I can do helps the club to where they want to be. It’s win-win.”
Matt Targett Stats Snapshot (Newcastle 2022–25)
| Stat (All Competitions) | Matt Targett |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 43 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Major Injuries | Hamstring, Achilles |
source: club & match data – 2 September 2025
The figures show how drastically injuries curtailed what had been a promising start to life at St James’ Park.
Analyst Verdict — John William
Targett’s honesty sheds light on the brutal side of elite football. A player once integral to Newcastle’s revival, his career was disrupted by injuries at exactly the wrong time. With Burn and Hall excelling, his opportunities evaporated.
For Middlesbrough, however, this is a coup. A fit and motivated Targett brings Premier League pedigree and balance on the left, while Edwards’ side can give him the platform to remind everyone of his quality. This move could rejuvenate his career — and potentially offer Newcastle a decision to make next summer.
Key Insights
- Targett calls his Newcastle spell “difficult” after injuries derailed progress.
- Hamstring tear vs Man Utd and Achilles injury ruled him out for months.
- Featured in Champions League and Carabao Cup win despite setbacks.
- Now on loan at Middlesbrough under Rob Edwards, who has impressed him.
- Enjoying first full pre-season in years and aiming to restart career.
What’s Next for Targett?
Targett’s immediate goal is to cement a starting place in Boro’s XI as they chase promotion. For Newcastle, his loan is both a financial reset and a chance to see if he can recapture form with consistent minutes.
Should he impress in the Championship, a permanent exit or even a second chance under Howe cannot be ruled out.
Can Matt Targett use his Middlesbrough loan to relaunch his career — and prove he still has a Premier League future?
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