Taylor suffered a cruciate ligament injury in August, but could be back on the training field next month after a punishing few months of rehabilitation.
Alan Pardew: “I spoke to him this week.
“He’ll possibly be back next month, with a bit of luck.
“I think it’s important for players like Ryan, who have had an injury like that, to get a game or two in before the season ends.
"I think he’s got a possibility of that.
“He’s coming into competition.
“Santon’s improved this year. Also Massadio’s come in. He’s got a bit of work to do on that side of the pitch.
“You know with Ryan, that delivery he has with that right foot is at a different level.
“He’s as good as Cabaye, if not better, from dead balls, so he’ll always be in and around my team.”
Ryan Taylor: “I’m about five and a half months intro my rehab, so there’s hopefully not much longer left.
“I haven’t really got a date or game in mind, but one game I’d love to be back for is the derby, and it’s a realistic target to be aiming for that.
“I’d love to be in contention for that game, but I’ve just got to see how the next few weeks go.”