Grimsby Preview

The odds of lightning striking twice are slim, particularly as The Magpies are sending a strong squad to the East Coast. Mariners boss Russell Slade has several injury worries, including Jean-Paul Kamudimba Kalala, who was the match-winner against Spurs. The DR Congo international is struggling with a back injury, while Tom Newey is suffering from a dead leg.

Gary Croft is another doubt due to a knee injury and Andy Parkinson may miss out due to a shin splints problem, although Calvin Andrew could play after signing on loan from Luton Town for the second time this season.

Kieron Dyer makes a surprise return to the Newcastle squad for the Carling Cup third-round tie at Grimsby. The England midfielder has been battling a hamstring problem but is deemed fit enough to return while manager Graeme Souness has also included midfielders Scott Parker and Emre, and defenders Titus Bramble and Celestine Babayaro in the travelling party as he fulfils his pledge to send his strongest squad to Blundell Park.

However Stephen Carr has joined Michael Owen, Craig Moore, Lee Bowyer and Steve Harper on the injured list although Souness expects to have Owen back in his plans for Sunday's game at West Brom.

Newcastle (from): Given, Taylor, Babayaro, Ramage, Boumsong, Bramble, Elliott, Parker, Emre, Dyer, Clark, N'Zogbia, Solano, Shearer, Chopra, Ameobi, Faye, Brittain, Caig.

Grimsby 11/2  Draw 3/1  Newcastle 2/5