Last Updated: Sat, 08 Dec 2012 12:45
Alan Pardew has maintained Nile Ranger is some way off breaking into the Newcastle first-team regularly, despite his Euro run-out.
The 21-year-old, who has had his problems off the pitch in the past 12 months and has been in trouble with the police on several occasions, started Thursday's Europa League game in France against Bordeaux in what was a rare first-team appearance.
The talented striker will hope for more Magpies chances under Pardew but the Toon boss has warned he has a long way to go before he's in regular contention.
The Newcastle boss told the Chronicle: "It's difficult when you haven't played a lot of football. He competed and did the job that was asked but he's got a long road, he knows that."
Ranger could be in the squad for Monday's Premier League clash with Fulham but will not start, having only got his chance against Bordeaux in the final Euro group clash because the Magpies were already through and Pardew opted for a much-changed side.
Have you an opinion on this story? Put your money where your mouth is and claim a free £25 bet.