Gael Bigirimana: Was loaned to Rangers in January

Falling out of the Premier League this season could boost Newcastle's long-term prospects, loanee Gael Bigirimana has claimed.

The 21-year-old has had a frustrating spell since moving to Rangers on a loan deal from Newcastle in January, not featuring for the Scottish Championship side after being diagnosed with a mystery illness.

However, with the Magpies in danger of relegation after a shocking run of eight successive defeats, the Burundi-born England youth cap has revealed his controversial thoughts on what he believes might actually end up helping his parent club.

Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ, he said: "This might put me in trouble but you look at what happened to Southampton five or six years ago. (The Saints went into administration and were relegated to League One in 2009).

"Sometimes as a club you need everything to be reviewed – its foundation and the structure.

Speaking on MNF, Gary Neville reflects on a tough weekend for Newcastle. Speaking on MNF, Gary Neville reflects on a tough weekend for Newcastle.

"I don’t want them to go down and get relegated. Nobody wants that to happen but it’s all about the future."

Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at Leicester left them two points above the relegation zone with an inferior goal difference to four of the five teams below.

Newcastle’s final games see them travel to relegation rivals QPR, either side of home games against West Brom and West Ham.

Bigirimana was one of five youngsters from St James' Park signed by former Rangers chief executive Derek Llambias in the January transfer window without being put through a medical - even though Bigirimana reportedly knew he was sick before signing for Rangers.