Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez delivers update on future of Chieck Tiote
RAFA BENITEZ has assured Cheick Tiote he hasn't become Newcastle's forgotten man.
Rafa Benitez - 5 things you need to know
Newcastle's longest-serving player has been limited to just 15 minutes of first-team action this season, as a late substitute at Aston Villa last month.
And despite ringing the changes for the EFL Cup win over Preston, Rafa Benitez still couldn't find a place in the squad for the Ivory Coast international.
Newcastle midfielder Chieck Tiote looks on during a training session
Tiote, who joined the Toon from FC Twente in 2010, has seen moves to China and Qatar collapse in the past six months. And with his contract expiring next June, the midfielder is expected to leave St James' Park.
But Benitez insists the door has not been slammed shut on his Magpies career just yet.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez and Chieck Tiote shake hands after 1-1 draw with Manchester City
Newcastle midfielder Chieck Tiote in action during a pre-season game against KSC Lokoren
He is training very well and I would like to give him a chance before January
"He is training very well and I would like to give him a chance before January," said Benitez. "His mentality is fine and I'm pleased with him.
"I was considering putting him in the squad for Preston but that would mean leaving someone else out which would not be fair."
Newcastle travel to Deepdale tomorrow just four days after thrashing Simon Grayson's side 6-0 to set up a quarter-final at Hull.
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?