Sean Longstaff has suffered an injury blow and has been ruled out of Newcastle United's clash at Liverpool.
The Academy product was hurt in training at Benton and sustained an ankle problem which is now being assessed at the club's training ground.
It means that Ki will come back into contention on Merseyside while Jonjo Shelvey is also pushing for a recall.
Steve Bruce confirmed the setback today and said: "Unfortunately, Sean Longstaff turned an ankle in training.
"It was one of those freak ones for Sean. He went to stop a cross and locked his ankle in the ground.
"That is what happens in football. He will miss out but there will be more occasions where he can player there (at Anfield) again."
The game against the Reds will also come too early for Andy Carroll and Allan Saint-Maximin.
Carroll has made good progress but will now see a specialist to assess his situation but Bruce hopes the striker and the winger could be back in contention for next weekend's clash with Brighton.
Bruce said: "We need more good news from his specialist.
"We hope it is.
"He has gone down to London today.
"I have always said it is always difficult to put a timescale, he has joined in and worked hard.
"He has a smile on his face.
"Touch wood he gets the good news."
Speaking about United's clash with Liverpool and the chances of victory, Bruce said: "The players have it in them here.
"Some have been here two or three years and there is decent spirit.
"They are capable and aren't afraid.
"If we can defend well. It is a game of football, we have a chance."
