Steve Bruce gives his verdict on Jeff Hendrick's start at Newcastle United

The midfielder, signed as a free agent in the summer following the expiry of his Burnley contract, made a goalscoring debut against West Ham United last month.

However, Hendrick – who has started every Premier League game so far this season – has found the going tougher in some of the club’s other fixtures.

The 28-year-old was often used on the right by Sean Dyche at Turf Moor, and he said he was “not a wide player” last November.

Hendrick has been used on the right, and in his favoured central role, by Steve Bruce this season, and United’s head coach is happy with the start the “flexible” player has made at Newcastle.

“His flexibility, probably, is the reason why he doesn’t (always) play centrally,” said Bruce, speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League home game against Everton.

"He’s played for us on the right, and did that very well. Look, he’s quietly gone about his work. That’s the sort of character he is. He’s done very well for us. I’ve been very, very pleased with him.

"He’s quietly gone about his work. He trains every day, a really genuine, honest, good-working pro who’s had a decent start. I hope that continues.”

Meanwhile, Bruce, without the injured Jonjo Shelvey, has Sean and Matty Longstaff back from illness and injury respectively, while Isaac Hayden is fit after being forced off against Manchester United at St James’s Park earlier this month.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of NUFC coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor