Mike Williamson could be heading back to Wolves in permanent January deal

Mike Williamson could be set for a January return for Wolves, with Newcastle United looking likely to offload the defender.

Williamson deeply impressed during a recent five-game loan spell, before he was recalled by Steve McClaren due to a defensive shortage at St James' Park.

Ironically Williamson picked up a slight hamstring strain almost immediately after returning to the North East, and hasn't played since.

However it isn't expected he'll be out of action for much longer - and with Steven Taylor returning to fitness in January, McClaren will again have sufficient cover at centre half.

The 32-year-old is out of contract next summer and it is believed Wolves would have to pay just a nominal fee to secure a permanent deal.

Since Williamson was recalled Wolves have struggled defensively, conceding nine goals in four matches. In Williamson's spell they conceded just three, and kept three clean sheets.

Reports in the North East suggest Newcastle will not stand in Williamson's way of returning to Molineux on a permanent basis, and it is believed the move would suit all parties.

Wolves currently have just five senior defenders at their disposal, with Kortney Hause sidelined with a hamstring injury.