Steve Bruce has told Sean and Matty Longstaff to "roll up their sleeves" if they want to force their way back into his first-team plans.
Sean Longstaff has not appeared since the 1-0 loss at Sheffield United, while Matty has been restricted to just five appearances overall this term and has not ventured from the bench as an unused sub in the last four matches.
Both of the brothers were wanted by Watford on deadline day while Derby County have had a longstanding interest in the younger sibling.
When asked about their future, Bruce - who signed 21-year-old midfielder Joe Willock on deadline day - said: “We have had too many disappointing performances (in general) as a team which has led to different changes.
"Play well and the team picks itself.
"After Everton, the team stayed the same.
"They (the Longstaffs) have to roll up their sleeves and be prepared for competition for places which is only natural."
But Sean Longstaff's disappearance from the team sheet on match days - which now has nine spaces on the bench - has baffled some supporters.
Bruce was asked specifically about the 23-year-old and said: "Sean?
"I won't comment on individuals. Sean and Matty get highlighted because they are Newcastle lads.
"He has gone up and down quickly and has to find that consistency.
"He is only a young lad.
"It happened for him quickly.”
Sean Longstaff made his debut for Newcastle in the League Cup against Nottingham Forest in 2018 during a 3-1 defeat at the City Ground.
Since then he has made 59 appearances, scoring four goals at senior level.
The former North Shields Athletic junior will see his current contract expire in June 2022.
