Newcastle United’s defensive lineup faces an unusual test early in the new season as injuries and international duties have limited options at centre-back, providing an unexpected opportunity for younger players to step forward.

The Magpies entered the campaign with experienced figures in central defence, including Fabian Schar and Dan Burn, both 34 years old, alongside Sven Botman, who is about to begin his fifth season at the club. Malick Thiaw, younger than his defensive peers, was the team’s most-utilised player in the previous season. However, with Burn and Thiaw still on international breaks following their World Cup appearances and Botman sidelined due to a facial injury, Schar was the only senior centre-back available for Newcastle’s 1-1 draw against Gateshead at the International Stadium on Saturday.

This shortage gave a platform to Newcastle’s younger prospects, notably 21-year-old Serbian defender Miodrag Pivas. After Schar was substituted after 59 minutes in his first appearance in over six months, Pivas came on to make his case during the final 31 minutes of the match. Pivas’ performance against National League opposition was steady and composed, following a 45-minute appearance in a closed-door friendly victory over Darlington earlier this month.

Pivas, who joined Newcastle two years ago from Serbian club FK Jedinstvo Ub, stands out as one of the rare signings made during Paul Mitchell’s time as sporting director. His development includes a loan spell at Dutch side Willem II, where he made seven appearances, and a consistent role in Newcastle’s under-21 squad last season.

With Burn recovering from England’s World Cup run and Thiaw just returning to training after his own international duties, Newcastle’s defensive options remain constrained. Manager Eddie Howe and his coaching staff may need to manage the playing time of returning internationals as they prepare for the upcoming Championship match against Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

Former CEO Darren Eales previously hailed Pivas as a “promising talent with high potential,” identified by the club’s recruitment team as a possible future first-team regular. As Newcastle faces a temporary shortage in central defence, this may represent a pivotal moment for Pivas to demonstrate his readiness for senior-level football and carve out a more prominent role at St James’ Park.