DeAndre Yedlin's future at Newcastle United is shrouded in doubt after Steve Bruce revealed there was a "visa issue" that prevented him from taking the field against Aston Villa.
The USA international spoke out about his lack of contract talks with the powers that be last week, and now faces an uncertain second half of the campaign.
When asked about Yedlin's absence in the 2-0 defeat at Villa Park, Bruce said: “There’s an issue with his visa.
"I’m not sure quite how quickly it will be resolved, but there’s certainly an issue there.
"We’ll let you know when he’s available."
Bruce was also asked about the possibility of bringing in Graeme Jones as coach from Bournemouth.
But he did not flatten the rumour from the South Coast.
He said: "I can't comment on that (Jones' possible arrival).
"I've just finished a game and there's no comment."
When asked if he and his back-room team need some help on the coaching side, Bruce said: "I am more concentrated in what we've seen.
"What encouraged me was to see Ryan and Allan on the pitch because, straightaway, we looked more of a threat.
"At the top end of the pitch, scoring a goal is the reason why Ryan, Allan and Callum are in the team. I think it’s the first time all season I’ve been able to see a glimpse from them. They will certainly make us better in that department.
"As we’ve said all along, that’s the difficult part of the Premier League, to create and score a goal.
"I was encouraged because those two coming onto the pitch, I know will make us better."
