Steve Bruce has stuck by his decision to make seven changes for Newcastle United's EFL Cup tie against Leicester City.
The Magpies were beaten on penalties but crashed out against a full strength Foxes side at St James' Park.
But Bruce revealed that many of the alterations were enforced due to injuries and others he did not want to risk with a big Premier League game against Watford around the corner.
He said: "Why was there seven?
"Well, Saint-Maximin is obviously one; Joelinton's two with a groin injury; Almiron's got an ankle, there's three.
"I changed the goalkeeper because I think it's vitally important that I keep him [involved], and I thought he was immaculate in his work.
"The others, I don't think I could have risked Atsu, who hadn't played for weeks, and of course young Longy [Sean] as well, I think three games in six days was too much for him considering he's just had a serious knee injury.
"With all of them, that's the reason."
Bruce is hoping that Joelinton and Miguel Almiron will be back against the Hornets but according to the Toon boss.
He reflected: "I hope, I hope so.
"I think Joe with be okay and Miggy will be okay, but I couldn't take that risk with what we've got.
"I'd have been sitting here even worse if I'd lost the strike-force which is hopefully going to win us the game on Saturday.
"Matt has been stitched in three different wounds and we'll have to wait until we can scan to see if there's ankle damage, but the kid's in a mess."
