Shola Fit For Arsenal Fixture

Last updated : 10 March 2012 By Footy Mad - Editor

Newcastle striker Peter Lovenkrands is definitely out and could miss the rest of the season after he suffered a suspected ruptured thigh muscle.

Pardew has just long-term absentees Leon Best and Sammy Ameobi (both knee), Peter Lovenkrands (ruptured thigh muscle), Steven Taylor (Achilles) and Sylvain Marveaux (groin) still missing.

NEWCASTLE (from): Krul, Elliot, Harper, Simpson, Santon, Ferguson, Perch, Coloccini, Williamson, Tiote, Cabaye, R. Taylor, Obertan, Ben Arfa, Gutierrez, Abeid, Gosling, Ba, Cisse, Shola Ameobi.

Brazil full-back Andre Santos could return to the Arsenal squad after recovering from a broken ankle.

Midfielder Mikel Arteta is available having been rested for the midweek Champions League win over AC Milan because of a blow to the head at Liverpool, while Wales captain Aaron Ramsey (ankle) should also be involved.

Yossi Benayoun has been out with a virus, while there were no other fresh injuries from midweek. Abou Diaby (hamstring), defender Francis Coquelin (hamstring), centre-back Per Mertesacker (ankle) and midfielder Jack Wilshere (ankle) remain sidelined.