The Latics could have eight first-team players sidelined for the trip to Tyneside, with David Jones (calf) and Gary Caldwell (hamstring) providing the only glimmers of hope in a packed-out treatment room as they are both rated 50-50 for the clash.
Midfielders Albert Crusat (knee) and Ben Watson (broken leg), winger Ryo Miyaichi (ankle), forward Shaun Maloney (groin) and defenders Antolin Alcaraz (groin) and Ivan Ramis (hamstring) remain on the sidelines.
Roberto Martinez: “It shows how far we have come this season and how far we want to go, as we’re not happy about performing well and losing to the champions (Manchester City 2-0).
“We were the better side for 60 minutes, but obviously you are disappointed when you play well and you perform well if you don’t get the three points.
“That little bit of luck or taking the chances or having that bit of favour of the ball bouncing in the striker’s path or the defender’s path can make a real difference.”