Jacob Murphy was not dropped for Newcastle United's 2-2 draw at Leeds United - Eddie Howe has revealed.
The popular Toon winger was named on the bench but did not even get cameo at Elland Road. But the decision was made based on the player's fitness levels after suffering a slight muscle injury.
Murphy has been in incredible form for Newcastle recently with a clutch of goals and assists in the Champions League run-in. But Howe, who replaced him with Miguel Almiron, had little choice but to tweak things.