Newcastle United lost their opening game of the 2019/20 Premier League game against Arsenal at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Steve Bruce didn’t use Yoshinori Muto when there was an opportunity late in the game when the Magpies were trailing by a single goal.
When asked about the reason, Bruce said it was purely based on tactical grounds. He added that the 27-year-old is very much a part of his plans for this season.
The Japan international joined the Magpies in 2018, signed by Rafael Benitez. He managed 17 Premier League games last season with most of them coming from the bench.