Matias Fernandez-Pardo in contention for first Newcastle start at Leeds

Matias Fernandez-Pardo is pushing for his first Newcastle start against Leeds on Monday, but head coach Matthias Jaissle will wait until Sunday or matchday before deciding whether the 20-year-old is ready.

The forward completed his first full week of training since joining Newcastle from Lille on Deadline Day. However, the club are taking care not to overload him as he continues to settle into his new surroundings.

Fernandez-Pardo made his Newcastle debut as a substitute in last weekend’s 2-2 comeback draw with Bournemouth. He is now hoping to make his first Premier League start when the Magpies travel to Elland Road.

“He is getting closer to starting. We need to be smart with his load management,” said Jaissle.

“He has had a full training week this week, the first since he arrived. We will need to make a decision on him Sunday or even Monday.”

Jaissle has been impressed by what he has seen from the Belgium-born 20-year-old since his arrival and believes he suits Newcastle’s approach.

“I am in love with what I have seen so far. He is an amazing player with huge potential,” he added.

“He fits in so good to how we want to play football. He’s doing an excellent job.”

Newcastle will arrive at Elland Road unbeaten in their past five matches in all competitions. Leeds, managed by Daniel Farke, have collected five points from their opening three league matches.

Jaissle expects the game to provide a significant test for his side. He praised Farke’s work with Leeds and said Newcastle would need to match the intensity generated by what he expects to be a special atmosphere.