Newcastle United interim boss Graeme Jones says there is no point naming Federico Fernandez as a substitute.
The former Argentina international has been a notable omission from Jones' first two team sheets as Toon chief with the former Luton manager sticking with Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles and Emil Krafth as his three centre-backs.
Given Fernandez has served as team captain in his last two outings for the Magpies to leave him in the stands and away from the dressing room during a relegation battle has proved to be something of a surprise for fans.
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Indeed, Fernandez was a major part of United's turnaround in the Premier League between March and May last year when he played in the team's important games to help steer the club away from relegation.
When asked about his absence, Jones told reporters: "I really like Fede as a defender, but I didn’t see any value in putting him on the bench.
"If you’re winning, you’re not going to put him on, and if you’re losing, you’re not going to put him on.
"Fede needs to start – or not.
"So it’s the same reason as I left him out of the 20 at Palace.
"It’s the same reason, as the boys did well."
Life doesn't get any easier for Fabian Schar either with the Switzerland international still waiting to appear for the Magpies for the first time since August against Southampton in the 2-2 draw at St James' Park.
