Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce hopes fans will be patient with youngster Elliot Anderson.

The teenager has not yet received his full debut, and is currently with the under-23 team.

Despite having an injury crisis in certain positions, Bruce wants to ensure he is not throwing Anderson into a relegation battle when he is not yet ready.

Bruce, asked by Chronicle Live about Anderson's chances of playing, said: "If I had to put him in, then I would put him in.

"But he is young and inexperienced. I think what I need at the moment is all the experience I can that can handle the situation.

"We have a very good young player on our hands. Let's not forget he is only 18.

"The same for Matty Longstaff...

"They are both young in their development and it is important they get 90 minutes under their belt and play for the reserves and Under-23s or whatever you want to call it. But look he is a very good young player the kid.

"We know what he is but at the moment I need to draw on all the experienced ones that I can who can handle the situation we're in."