Kevin Keegan has assured Steven Taylor he has a future at Newcastle.
Taylor turned down a new deal in September because he felt it compared unfavourably with some of the club's other youngsters' contracts.
But Keegan has moved to reassure Newcastle fans about Taylor's place in his plans, despite admitting he has yet to look at new contracts for current players.
He told the Evening Chronicle: "Anything like that won't even be considered by myself for a while.
"That's no disrespect to any players who have got contract problems, as I don't know who they are. I've got other priorities but I am sure we can sort it out.
"I like Steven Taylor - I think he's got leadership qualities in the making.
"There's not a lot of experience at the back, apart from Shay Given.
"Against Bolton, Taylor had a player in front of him who is still also learning the Premier League in David Rozehnal.
"But I thought Taylor was tremendous on Saturday, and I've been very impressed with him every time I've seen him play for a long time now."
Taylor will face another stern examination when the Magpies head for Arsenal in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend ahead of the league clash between the two sides at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday evening.
Keegan will have midfield duo Alan Smith and Nicky Butt back from suspension, although Emre serves the second of his three-match ban following his dismissal in the third-round replay against Stoke.
Striker Mark Viduka remains a doubt with the calf injury which sidelined him for the Bolton game, although a scan has revealed that the damage is not as bad as was first thought.
However, the chances of Joey Barton being included are remote with the club playing down suggestions he could be flown up to London by helicopter for the game.
The 25-year-old midfielder has been bailed to the Sporting Chance clinic in Hampshire after being charged with assault and affray, and one of the conditions is a 7pm curfew.
But while his presence in north London this weekend is logistically possible, it is understood it is unlikely to happen.
More news from SportingLife.com
