Newcastle United’s forgotten man Rob Elliot made a surprise return to the bench for the trip to Burnley.
Elliot has not played a first-team match since 2017 in the defeat against Manchester City at St James’ Park.
But a back injury to Karl Darlow resulted in the Republic of Ireland international travelling with the squad to Lancashire.
Darlow hopes to be back in contention for next week’s game with Crystal Palace.
The 33-year-old Elliot is out of contract at the end of the season and could be released.
Elliot’s preference is to extend his deal and fight for his place.
He was training with the Under-23s earlier in the year under Rafa Benitez but Bruce recalled him to the senior training base.
Elliot said earlier this season: “You never know, but I really hope I haven’t played my last game for the club.
“When I walked out against Man City, I never would have envisaged that would have been my last game for nearly two years.
"I tweaked my thigh. I was only out for a couple of weeks, but by that time Karl had come in and then Martin Dubravka had signed.
“Martin’s been fantastic and played every game.”
