Eddie Howe's long

Harrison Ashby is expected to join Swansea City on loan before this weekend's Championship season gets under way

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Eddie Howe sees Harrison Ashby as part of Newcastle United's future, despite sending the full-back out on loan to Swansea City for the upcoming season. Ashby only joined the north east outfit back in January but is already being shipped out in search of first team minutes despite a positive showing in pre-season.

The 21-year-old netted the winner in the win over Rangers at Ibrox last month and was the standout performer in the first-half against Brighton in the Premier League Summer Series last week. Ashby was seen by many as the perfect Kieran Trippier backup this season but will now gain vital experience away from St James' Park.

Howe fought hard to get the full-back through the door earlier this year, tempting him away from his boyhood West Ham United to join the revolution on Tyneside. Even though Ashby isn't currently in his plans, he is seen as an ideal option for the future.

READ MORE: Eddie Howe had 'clear request' for Newcastle pre-season as Tonali tipped for 'special' Sela Cup

"He’s certainly made improvements since he’s joined us," Howe said of the player back in May. "He’s had a couple of hamstring injuries initially, which set him back. He’s training, he’s doing well. He’s certainly a player we believe in for the future."

As of Thursday afternoon, Swansea were yet to confirm Ashby's arrival but the club seemingly gave away news of the transfer, twice, accidentally. Eagle-eyed fans spotted a photo from Swans training on Wednesday, with a tattooed arm in one of the photographs from the session looking mysteriously similar to Ashby's sleeve tattoo.

The club website was also allowing Swansea fans to purchase 'Ashby #30' home shirts for the new season before swiftly removing the option when fans began sharing the information on social media.

"Harrison Ashby's in the door. We're just waiting for the registration to be signed off," said Swans head coach Michael Duff on Thursday afternoon.

As for Newcastle, they are working hard to secure a deal for another right-back in the form of Tino Livramento. The Magpies have been rebuffed by Southampton so far this summer but remain determined to get a deal done for the 20-year-old.

*Tickets are available for the Sela Cup from the box office here.