Eddie Howe has revealed he has a careful plan for Jonjo Shelvey and won't hesitate when it comes to resting him over the hectic festive schedule.
Shelvey, who scored in the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool before Christmas, was omitted from the squad for the 4-0 hammering at the hands of Manchester City a couple of days later.
And it remains to be seen whether he returns for the holiday clash with Manchester United tonight at St James' Park.
Howe has explained his absence and said: "It is muscle concerns with Jonjo.
"He was feeling a tight groin and a tight hamstring.
"I think he's given a lot to the team in the hectic schedule we had.
"He hadn't had a lot of football before that period.
"I didn't want to force him to play in a game that was probably a step too far then lose him for a number of weeks.
"I think it was the right decision."
When asked when the former Charlton Athletic star would be likely to return, Howe said: "He hasn't trained with the group yet we hope to have him back soon.
"He's such an important player in many different ways so we need to keep him fit."
Shelvey has made just 10 appearances so far this season after featuring 32 times in the 2020/21 campaign.
