Eddie Howe says Sean Longstaff's future is "unclear" but backed the 26 year old to play his part in Newcastle's end of the season.
The Magpies academy product has a year left to run on his contract but has fallen out of favour as a result of the form of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
"His role is to be ready to play, be ready to come on, and I've trusted him in big games where he has come on and played his part," said Howe.
"His long-term future is slightly more unclear but behind the scenes Sean has been really really good."
Listen to more from Howe on the Total Sport Newcastle United podcast feed on BBC Sounds
