Steve Bruce is set to be guided on the full availability of Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson by club medics ahead of Sunday's clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
The former Nice winger is set to play some part in the encounter at St James' Park, while Wilson's chances depended on how he came through Saturday's training session at Benton.
Bruce would love to be able to name both on the team sheet to face Spurs but knows with bigger battles to come in the next two months, he may have to be patient.
Bruce said: "You rely on the sports scientists and doctors at the club, who have been here a long time. They're experienced people.
"So yes we guard with caution because they are both muscles injuries.
"So you can't rush a muscle injury, you have to be guarded against it.
"I'll take the advice of the people that work at the club behind the scenes in that department.
"And make the right choice I hope."
