Both were left out of the Magpies' 8-0 thumping at the hands of the Australian A-League All-Stars.
The post-season friendly is a controversial one that many fans did not feel should have occurred.
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Howe told Chronicle Live in Melbourne on the duo: "They are out of contract. So for obvious reasons, it would have been a big risk with no contract offer for them at the moment.
"A lot of is riding on the FA Cup final for the club (who wins between Man Utd and Man City will determine which European competition Newcastle play next season).
In terms of revenue for next year and European qualification will be massive for us. I am sure that will play a part in the futures of the two players we are speaking about."