Newcastle United's decision to remain patient over Elliot Anderson's future looks to have paid off after Jonjo Shelvey was ruled out until with a hamstring problem.
The 30-year-old was in London last week for an assessment and it is understood he is set for a spell on the sidelines. Shelvey looks unlikely to play again before Premier League season temporarily stops for the World Cup in November and Newcastle are suddenly looking short in midfield in the former Liverpool star's absence.
Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff are all options for Eddie Howe in the middle of the park but Anderson is another who could feature after impressing in pre-season.
His performance as the most attacking member of the midfield trio against Atalanta last month was a signal that he may be ready to play a part in Newcastle's first team.