Report explains why Eddie Howe is not picking Ryan Fraser right now

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Ryan Fraser once again failed to make the Newcastle United squad as Eddie Howe’s side beat Fulham 1-0 on Sunday.

The Magpies returned to third in the Premier League table thanks to an 89th minute winner from Alexander Isak, on what was a frustrating afternoon inside St James’ Park.

Howe had to rely on his substitutes for a lift – especially after Bruno Guimaraes was forced off at half time with an ankle problem.

Allan Saint-Maximin came on in his place, but the real difference maker arrived in the 71st minute.

But as Newcastle celebrated a late winner, one player was nowhere to be seen. Once again, Fraser was not on the Toon bench.

The 28-year-old has been linked with a move away this month, and a new report from the Athletic suggests why he has not featured as of late.

Eddie Howe looking to move Ryan Fraser on

According to the Athletic, Howe is currently reluctant to use Fraser. That is because he does not want the winger to pick up an injury that could hinder his chances at getting a move away during the January transfer window.

The Scotland international wants to leave Newcastle this month, and the club are happy for him to go. It was recently reported that Toon officials want to sell Fraser, but a loan move is probably more likely.

It has been a difficult season for Fraser, who has grown frustrated with his lack of minutes. He has started just three games all season, with his last appearance coming on October 19th.

Since then, Fraser not played a single minute of competitive football. We have played 12 times since Fraser’s last Toon outing. In those 12 games, he has only appeared on the bench five times.

It is a complete contrast to this time last year, when Fraser was becoming a key player in black and white. He was developing a real partnership with Kieran Trippier, and continued to excel after the defender’s injury.

Howe described Fraser as ‘excellent‘ after a draw with West Ham last February, but now the former Bournemouth star can’t even get on the bench.

With Newcastle keen to move Fraser on, it is wise to not play him. It would be just his and our luck that he gets injured and fails to leave this month.

It was previously reported that Southampton and Brentford are interested, but a move is yet to be forthcoming in the first half of the January transfer window. Fraser now has just over two weeks to find himself a new club.