Steve Bruce could hand Ryan Fraser his Newcastle United debut against Blackburn Rovers in the League Cup this week.
The Scotland international did not feature in the 2-0 win over West Ham United on Saturday night in the capital, but is raring to go after arriving on a free transfer last week.
Fraser declared himself fit at Benton on Wednesday but Bruce feels he is lacking match practice and throwing him in against the Hammers was a risk.
Bruce, who could rotate his team a little against Rovers in the second round of the League Cup at St James' Park, was asked about Fraser after the win at the London Stadium and said: "Ryan hasn't played since March and didn't really train until Wednesday.
"He's kept himself in remarkable condition but mark my words, from what I've seen in the few training sessions he's had, he'll be a big favourite with the Newcastle fans."
Bruce watched on at West Ham as both Callum Wilson and Jeff Hendrick scored debut goals.
He reflected: "Jeff gave us a nice balance.
"I've been a big admirer of his for a long time and I was delighted at how brave he was to get the assist for Callum.
"Then he fired one in the top corner - he'll remember that.
"Jeff gave us a nice balance.
"I've been a big admirer of his for a long time and I was delighted at how brave he was to get the assist for Callum.
"Then he fired one in the top corner - he'll remember that."
