John Carver says Massadio Haidara’s withdrawal meant he was unable to hand Jonas Gutierrez’s his first Newcastle United appearance for two years.
The Argentina international was handed a magnificent reception from the Geordie crowd when his name was announced and as he warmed up as sub.
But with the game at a critical stage, Haidara’s injury concern meant that Ryan Taylor got the nod.
John Carver: “Unfortunately because of what happened to Sadio, I have to put Ryan on at left-back.
“I have to make a decision – he is getting closer, he is getting fitter, he is getting stronger, so the time will eventually come, especially if we keep losing bodies.”