Ethan Pinnock is in contention to face Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon.

The Jamaica international is yet to make a First Team appearance this term due to a knee injury, but has stepped up his recovery in recent weeks and is now available for selection.

“Ethan’s fully available and an option,” Thomas Frank told the gathering media at the Gtech Community Stadium.

“Of course, he lacks a little bit of sharpness, but he’s been fit the last couple of weeks.

“The fitness is not an issue; it’s that sharpness we’re looking for in every session.

“I need to find out who’s playing next to Ben Mee in that back four. Kristoffer [Ajer] has been looking good as well.”

Sergi Canós, who hasn’t played since the final day of last season against Leeds United, is also available for selection.

Pontus Jansson was withdrawn midway through the second half at the Vitality Stadium last weekend, and Frank confirmed that the captain will be unavailable for our trip north.

“Pontus has a hamstring injury,” said the head coach, “we don’t know how long it’ll be, but he’ll be out for Saturday.”

Fellow centre-half Charlie Goode (knee) remains sidelined. Christian Nørgaard and Keane Lewis-Potter will also be absent at St. James’ Park.

“Norgaard is still out,” said Frank . “It’ll be weeks, but the plan is to have him back before November.

“He’s [Lewis-Potter] getting better. He’s not training with the squad, but he was out running on the grass today, so that’s promising.”