Eddie Howe hopes Bruno Guimaraes' injury is "not serious" as Newcastle prepare for Sunday's meeting with Aston Villa.
The Magpies skipper limped off with an ankle problem during the 3-0 Champions League victory against PSV Eindhoven, with Lewis Miley brought on in his place.
With Guimaraes' availability still uncertain, Howe described the Brazilian as an "inspirational figure", but stressed the "right decision" will be made about whether he can be involved against a Villa said sitting third in the table, 10 points ahead of Newcastle.
"With Bruno we hope it's not serious. The extent of the injury is still unknown, but he was reasonably positive after the game," Howe said.
"Speaking to him again, he's the guy that will never rule anything out, so we're going to give him every chance for this weekend. Let's wait and see.
"We'll always try and make the right decisions, as we do with every player, depending on need and circumstances, to protect them long-term but also to help the team if they need to play.
"We'll try and get that right with Bruno. He is a pivotal player. I've always said he's been the match-winner for us so many times over the years.
"He's an inspirational figure so we need him, but of course we need him fit and available and able to perform to his best level, so we'll try and make all the calculations and come up with the right decision."
Newcastle have struggled in matches Guimaraes has not been involved in and while recognising his importance, Howe admitted an alternative solution will be needed should the midfielder not be fit.
"In terms of working out how to play without him, he is just a very good player, a very talented footballer, a very creative footballer. Regardless of where he plays, he has the ability to change games," Howe added.
"Of course if we're without him in any game, you have to come up with a solution, you have to come up with an alternative way of either selecting your team or a way of playing.
"We'll try and figure out all avenues if he isn't available, but we hope he can make it."
Howe also provided an update on Dan Burn, who is back in full training.
The defender has been sidelined since December after sustaining an injury following a heavy collision with Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele during the Wear-Tyne derby.
Speaking about Burn's availability, Howe said: "I think with Dan, as you saw around the Champions League game, he is out with the players.
"Today, possibly the first day where he's training fully with the group, taking contact and that will be the key thing for him. But he's desperate to get back involved, so that's a great sign."
PA
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