£2.5million Bridcutt has given Poyet genuine competition in the defensive midfield slot, with the former Brighton man holding off the challenge of fit-again Cattermole for Saturday’s defeat to Hull City.
But Poyet says it will not necessarily be a case of one or the other in the holding role.
Gus Poyet: “I know how important Lee is for us and how much he will share the role with Liam.
“Or as we said at the beginning, can Lee and Ki play together?
“Well, can Liam and Lee play together? I’m sure there is going to be a game.
“But it’s perfect to have the two of them.
“You can’t imagine how much it changes your way of planning for games.
“For example, in the cup final, Liam is cup-tied. How simple it is to replace him.
“If Lee wasn’t here, you suddenly have to change the team. That’s a relief.”