Steve Bruce signing banished from Newcastle United senior training - his reaction goes public

Ryan Fraser was back in Newcastle United colours on Monday afternoon - turning out for the under-21s against Norwich City.

The Scotland international’s surprise appearance at Whitley Park was his first in England since October 2022. He grabbed a goal and an assist in a dramatic 4-3 win for Ben Dawson’s youngsters.

Fraser has been banished from Eddie Howe’s senior squad following a fallout with his long-term head coach over a lack of game time. As a result, the 29-year-old has spent the last couple of months training with the under-21s.

Howe questioned Fraser’s commitment to United during a press conference in March. Dawson, however, has praised the former Bournemouth winger’s conduct since dropping down to the academy.

“Ryan’s performance summed up how he’s been since he’s been with us,” Dawson told The Athletic. “He’s been absolutely terrific, one of the best trainers every day. He maxes out physically.

“Mentally, he’s been great to have around the young lads in terms of seeing how he conducts himself in the building, how he looks after himself away from the building with his nutrition, with his gym work.

“As much as Ryan has been great, we all know he wants first-team football.”

Fraser’s outing yesterday could well prove to be his last in black and white, with Dawson’s side having just one game remaining this campaign. It remains unlikely Fraser will be recalled by Howe for his side’s Premier League run-in.

Asked if there had been a change in Fraser’s situation on Friday morning, Howe replied “no”.

The former Aberdeen star has made 59 appearances for Newcastle and scored three since joining as a free agent under Steve Bruce in 2020.

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