Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce admits a fully fit Paul Dummett can help guide them to Premier League safety.

Bruce says he is going to be careful with Dummett as he looks to ease the experienced defender back into the side.

The 29-year-old made just his fourth appearance of the season against Southampton earlier this month after suffering from Achilles, thigh and hamstring injuries over the past year.

“We'll need his experience and know-how," said Bruce ahead of their trip to Manchester United.

"We're also mindful of just throwing him in there. Since Southampton he's trained another week and the more sessions he does the better. He's there or thereabouts."

Meanwhile, Martin Dubravka's return to fitness has given Bruce a selection issue to ponder, with Karl Darlow excelling in his absence.

“He's been very professional but that doesn't mean he's happy [with not playing] and I wouldn't expect him to be," Bruce said of Dubravka.

"I've stayed with Karl because I think he deserves it - all season we've said how well he's played but I need that competition."