Newcastle United midfielder Siem de Jong has been offered a temporary coaching role at the club while he recovers from a collapsed lung.
The Dutchman has been asked to monitor Under-21 matches and report back to head coach John Carver, according to The Mirror.
"He's such a positive guy he might be back quicker than anyone expects," said Carver.
"I want to make him feel part of the club because I think he's a little bit frustrated because he's come here with a big reputation and he's not been able to get on the pitch and give something to the fans.
"He got so close and then it's like chopping his legs away. So I need to have a discussion with him but if I can use him around the place I'd be mad not to."
De Jong is facing an eight-week layoff after undergoing a "major" lung operation.
