Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce insists Yoshinori Muto is in his plans.

The Japan striker was missing for defeat to Arsenal.

Bruce was also asked in his Press conference why he hadn't handed Muto an opportunity late in the game when trailing by a single goal.

He said: "We had three strikers on the pitch, it was all about trying to find a balance.

"Muto has done very well since I've come into the club.

"I haven't used him today but he's very much part of my thoughts.

"Since I've been here in the last three and a half weeks, everybody I've bumped into has been nothing other than positive."