Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce says he is considering outgoing loan deals for Dan Barlaser and Jacob Murphy.
The summer arrivals of Jeff Hendrick and Ryan Fraser have dashed the chances of the duo getting regular first-team action, although they could be used in the potentially congested League Cup programme this month before being sent out to Sky Bet Championship clubs.
Both Rotherham United - for Barlaser - and Sheffield Wednesday - for Murphy - are waiting in the wings to net loan deals before deadline day.
Bruce told the Chronicle: "We have to make big decisions on the two young ones. Jacob Murphy and Dan Barlaser.
"They have both done OK. I have to make a decision, are they going to get game-time?
"And if they aren't then we will have to let them out again. They have done very well."
Barlaser has been back with United since June and trained with the first team while also playing in a clutch of summer friendlies.
He enjoyed a richly rewarding loan spell with the Millers last term and helped them to promotion from League One.
Bruce said: "He's got to an age where he's 23.
"He's not 19 anymore so does he stay with us and have a career or does he have to move on and find a career?
"Those are the conversations I have to have in the next three weeks."
Bruce may also have to make another tricky decision on squad places later this month.
Last summer he told Jack Colback, Rolando Aarons and Achraf Lazaar, three players he'd worked with before, that they hadn't been handed squad numbers.
Bruce said: "There comes a time - in a month - when I have to pick 22 (outfield) players.
"And at the minute we have something like 28.
"Unfortunately, there will be people who won't make it. That's what we've got."
