Elliot Anderson was prevented from going out on loan during the January transfer window by Eddie Howe.
The 20-year-old has been told by Howe that the mere fact Newcastle United blocked a loan exit should tell him everything he needs to know ahead of what is now a window of opportunity.
Anderson was afforded nine minutes in the 1-1 draw against West Ham but remains in contention for the next two matches with Bruno Guimaraes suspended in midfield.
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Howe said: "I definitely feel that. And I hope from the transfer window that he hopes he feels closer to playing.
"He certainly is. The strength he has within him, we really believe in him. I think he's got very good attributes and like all players, I think he would need a run in the team to really show his qualities but he can certainly play."
When asked if the Whitley Bay youngster had knocked on the head coach's door during a run of unused sub appearances, Howe spoke of the regular chats he has with the playmaker.
The Newcastle boss said: "No he hasn't knocked on my door but we do have regular meetings with him. I think it is important you communicate with your players and just keep updated with his life and what he's doing and how he's feeling.
"He's had a few physical problems which knocked him around December time. They were difficult months for him but I think he's through that now.nBut he's always working at different elements of his game to improve himself."
Howe spoke about Wembley places for the Carabao Cup final being "up for grabs" on the eve of the West Ham stalemate. Anderson certainly has the chance to put himself in the frame for the big day beneath the Wembley arch.
Howe said: "He is ready to start from a physical perspective, he's had a few niggles and calf problems and a thigh problem.
"But these were one or two injuries that set back his rhythm of his training so he hasn't had a really fluid period of training such as what we saw in pre-season. So from a physical perspective, he's looked stronger and mentally Elliot is very strong as well and very driven.
"He wants to do extra every day to be the best player he can be. "And yeah he's in a place where he could start games, whether he will or not is down to him."
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