Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic could be handed a rare opportunity to start on Friday, according to the Chronicle.
Dwight Gayle’s hamstring injury means manager Rafa Benitez will opt to start either the Serbian or Daryl Murphy when the Magpies face Leeds at St James’ Park.
Murphy replaced Gayle in the 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend, but the 34 year old couldn’t make an impact on the game as Newcastle played second fiddle to the Owls for large spells in the match.
Mitrovic did come on against Wednesday in the second half as Benitez sought a way back into the game but the 22 year old has had very few first team chances in recent weeks.
His last start came against Bristol City back in late February and his appearance from the bench at the weekend were the first minutes on the field for the Magpies since that 2-2 draw six weeks ago.
With just six goals all season, Mitrovic has struggled to make an impact this season but he may get his chance on Good Friday, and in the process, help Newcastle in their promotion charge.
