Rafa Benitez has insisted that Mo Diame's complex contract situation will not influence his team selection between now and the end of the season.
It is believed that Diame is within a couple of starts of triggering an extension to his Newcastle United deal which would keep him at the club for the 2019/20 season.
Diame is keen on a two-year deal but United are reluctant to commit to such a request.
The former Senegal midfielder started the 2-2 draw against AFC Bournemouth last time out, and is now within swinging distance of an extension.
When asked if Diame's position is affecting his thoughts on team selection, Benitez said: "No, the reality is that Sean Longstaff was doing really well and so was Isaac Hayden.
"So we didn't have the chance (to start Diame).
"He is training well and competing with the others so he is doing really well."
Ki sat out of the game at Bournemouth all together and didn't get a place in the squad, and when asked about the South Korea international's last contributions against Everton in the 3-2 win, Benitez said: "Ki was trying to do his best.
"That means that there has been an increase in competition.
"We also had to give Jonjo Shelvey a chance and he did well.
"Now we have a problem because we have four players for two positions.
"They have to compete and we have to make decisions."
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez: 'I have 10 more years left in football - but I don't know where'
