Steve Bruce says that Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka's return from a heel injury is taking longer than expected.
Dubravka was hurt in pre-season, but Karl Darlow has stepped in as a more than able deputy.
The Newcastle manager was hopeful of the Slovakia international goalkeeper getting back to action this month.
But he could have to wait before his first-choice shot-stopper is back in action.
Without putting a timeframe on Dubravka's comeback date, Bruce said: "We thought he'd be more advanced - it's not.
"It's fair to say it's slower than we'd like. We will have to let nature take its course."
But there was better news for Bruce with all of his international players reporting back to Benton with no injuries.
He said: "They are all OK. They were returned OK.
"We knew Jamal Lewis was returning early but he is fine as well so all good on that front."
The big headline-grabber over the international fortnight was Ryan Fraser who netted the winner for Scotland.
Bruce reflected: "It's great news for him. That was one thing we didn't need - and we had a conversation with Scotland - but it's great for him."
