This is why Kelland Watts was recalled by Newcastle United

Watts was on the bench against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the weekend after being recalled from a season-long loan at League Two side Stevenage.

And the defender – who is cup-tied and unable to play in tonight’s FA Cup replay against Rochdale – could now be loaned to a team in a higher division after impressing Shola Amoebi, United’s loan co-ordinator, with his attitude and application away from Tyneside.

Asked what was the loan for Watts, Bruce said: “Possibly to go back on loan. We think he can go higher. He’s done exceptionally well for Stevenage. He’s trained with us the last four days, and you can see he’s improved. The experience has done him the world of good.”

Watts – who signed a new contract at Newcastle last year – made his senior debut for the club in a Premier League Asia Trophy fixture against Wolves in China last summer.

Rolando Aarons, also cup-tied, is back from a half-season loan at League One club Wycombe Wanderers. The winger, under contract at St James’s Park until 2021, is also likely to leave the club again in this month’s transfer window.

Bruce said: “Rolando’s the same. We’ll see what happens there.”

Meanwhile, Under-23 players Tom Allan and Elias Sorensen are contenders to be on the bench against Rochdale.

“At this moment, they’ll be two of them (Under-23 players on the bench),” said Bruce.