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With the Asian Cup fast approaching, Newcastle United will be losing a key man in Ki Sung-yueng as he focuses his attention on the tournament with South Korea. In his absence, however, there will be a huge opportunity for another of the Magpies' midfielders.

What's the word, then?

The Asian Cup will run from January 5 to February 1, in which time Newcastle will be playing Blackburn in the FA Cup, Chelsea away, Cardiff at home and Manchester City at home, most of which should prove vital in their battle for survival.

However, South Korea are able to call up their players 15 days prior to the start of the tournament, meaning the game against Fulham this weekend could be his final one and he could also miss the festive fixtures against Liverpool, Watford and Manchester United.

Ki has so far started eight league games for the Tynesiders so far this season, recording one assist and keeping the play ticking over nicely as he always does in that central midfield role. His fellow midfielder Hayden is almost the polar opposite of that, however.

The former Arsenal man enjoys the more combative side of the game, crunching into tackles and making sure he wins his aerial duels in the middle of the park.

Rafa Benitez started the recent win at Huddersfield with a five-man midfield including the likes of Mohamed Diame and Christian Atsu, but introduced Hayden late on and to some effect. The 23-year-old played just 18 minutes but made one tackle and five clearances as he helped his side scrape a hugely important 1-0 victory against the Terriers.

He must take his chance

Hayden was a key part of Benitez's side in their title-winning Championship season two years ago, but he has struggled to be a regular in the XI since and made just one start so far this season.

In Ki's absence, Hayden's performances over the month of January could be the difference between him having a future at St James' Park, or having to find a new club in the summer.

As aforementioned, with games against Chelsea and City to come in January, his style of play may suit the high amount of defending that the Magpies will presumably have to do - however, it is up to him to apply himself and decide if he wants to be a mainstay in the Newcastle team, even when Ki returns.