What's happening with Cheick Tiote? Rafa Benitez explains his situation at Newcastle

The long-serving midfielder – who has come close to leaving the club in the past two transfer windows – has only made one substitute's appearance so far this season.

But Tiote was on the bench for Tuesday night's EFL Cup tie against Hull City.

And the 30-year-old, in the final year of his contract at United, has travelled to Nottingham with his team-mates ahead Championship fixture at the City Ground.

Asked about Tiote's situation, Newcastle manager Rafa Bentiez said: "He will be with us and could be involved, but that doesn't mean he will.

"At the moment, he's our player. Everyone keeps asking if he's still our player, but there is still no offer on the table. He's training well and is a good pro."

Proposed moves to clubs in China, Greece and Turkey have broke in January and the summer, but Tiote is expected to finally secure an exit in the New Year.

In the meantime, Tiote could play a part in United promotion challenge.

"We had a situation when the transfer window was open," said Benitez. "We were waiting, but now everything is find and if we need to use him he'll do fine. In January, we'll wait and see if there are any offers."