Pundit Paddy Kenny has been giving his reaction to the latest news on Newcastle United ace Ryan Fraser ahead of the Magpies' final match before the international break.

The Lowdown: No call-up

Fraser has not been called up by Steve Clarke for Scotland's upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Austria or Wales, having not played for his country since the 1-0 win away at Faroe Islands in FIFA World Cup qualifying back in October.

Speaking to the media before Fraser joins his Toon teammates at Goodison Park against Everton tonight, as quoted by Sky Sports, Clarke revealed that Fraser has now apologised after turning down a call-up last year, but has still decided not to put him back in the squad.

The Latest: Kenny reacts

Speaking to Football Insider, former Leeds and Sheffield United goalkeeper Kenny has given his reaction to the news, with the 43-year-old suggesting that he should now be in the squad:

“That news is a bit surprising, to be honest.

“He’s been brilliant. He made that decision last time, he felt he wasn’t fit and footballers know their own bodies.

“So I think it’s poor that they are holding that against him, that’s not on. He’s had injury issues in the past.

“It looks like he has made the right decision as well because he has had a really strong run in that Newcastle side.

“His form has been very, very good and you would think Scotland want him there.

“Newcastle will be at the club, he can have a few days off if he needs them.

“That will then give him the platform to have a really good end to the season which is what everyone wants.”

The Verdict: Should be in

If the reason that Fraser is not in the squad is because of his snub a few months ago, then they should not hold that against him, as solely based on current form, there is simply no better option for the Tartan Army than the Magpies star.

He has scored two goals and made a further two assists in his last seven matches in the Premier League, with the club having only recently ended a brilliant undefeated run away at Chelsea (Transfermarkt).

The winger is proven at international level too, with a goal or assist every other game for Scotland, and with important World Cup knockout rounds to come, Clarke must find a way to get him back onside.

In other news, find out what 'massive' NUFC update this Sky Sports man has now heard here!