Manager Steve Bruce will be without several central midfielders through injury and suspension for the game against the European Cup holders and the 19-year-old is one of few options Bruce has when he names his team for the live television clash.
Muzzy Izzet (Achilles), Jiri Jarosic (ankle), Stephen Clemence (hamstring), and Nicky Butt (suspended) will all be missing for the game against the Reds leaving Bruce having to choose from two of Damien Johnson, Olivier Tebily and Kilkenny to form a central midfield partnership.