Carlisle-born Premier League prospect Joe White will remain with Newcastle United for the rest of the season, manager Eddie Howe has confirmed.

White impressed on loan in League Two with Crewe Alexandra in the first half of the season.

And the Railwaymen had hoped to bring the skilful Cumbrian back to the club to boost their fourth-tier promotion push.

But Howe plans to involve White in his Premier League numbers between now and the end of the campaign.

And the St James' Park chief says it could present the 21-year-old with his big chance.

"Joe will stay with us for the rest of the season," Howe told reporters on Tyneside.

"We're light on bodies in midfield and it's a really good opportunity for him to come in and show he's at the level.

News and Star: Eddie Howe says it could be a great opportunity for WhiteEddie Howe says it could be a great opportunity for White (Image: PA)

"He's certainly improved, the loan spell has been a really crucial period for him and this could be a great opportunity."

White, in the third loan move of his young career after previous spells with Hartlepool United and Exeter City, made 25 appearances and scored three goals for Lee Bell's fifth-placed Crewe.

Bell, speaking earlier this month, said there was some "confidence" at Crewe that they could secure a second loan with the former Carlisle academy player, who is the grandson of former Carlisle United physio, player and coach and ex-Workington Reds manager Peter Hampton.

But Howe's comments appear to dash that hope regarding the England Under-18 international.

White, who has also been linked with Stockport County, was unable to be involved in Newcastle's squad for their 2-0 FA Cup fourth round win at Fulham on Saturday as he was cup-tied thanks to his involvement in the competition for Crewe this season.

The tenth-placed Magpies are back in Premier League action when they take on Aston Villa at Villa Park on Tuesday night.