Toon Robbed Of Two Stars As They Face Toughest Test Yet!

Last updated : 05 January 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
Newcastle (from): Given, Harper, Carr, Beye, N'Zogbia, Enrique, Rozehnal, Cacapa, Taylor, Faye, Edgar, Butt, Milner, Emre, Duff, Smith, Viduka, Owen.

With some thinking defeat could see the end of Sam Allardyce as Toon boss, this is seen as a "must win" fixture.
Martins has joined the Nigeria squad for a pre-tournament training camp, but could return for next weekend's Premier League clash with Manchester United.

However, Geremi will not be available until Cameroon's involvement comes to an end.

Abdoulaye Faye and Habib Beye will join up with Senegal after Sunday's game.

Striker Alan Smith could return to the squad after recovering from concussion, but Joey Barton will again be missing despite his release from custody after being charged with assault and affray.

Andy Wilkinson and Ricardo Fuller are expected to return to the Stoke squad.
Defender Wilkinson missed the 1-1 draw with Hull on New Year's Day due to a thigh strain but is winning his fitness battle and should slot straight back into City's starting line-up at the expense of Stephen Wright, who has rejoined parent club Sunderland.

Leading scorer Fuller, who has scored 11 goals this season, missed the same game as he attended a family funeral back in his native Jamaica but is expected to link up in time to be in contention to lead the line against the Magpies.

Midfielder Salif Diao suffered a setback in his bid to overcome a troublesome knee injury earlier this week and is likely to remain alongside Dominic Matteo (foot) on the sidelines.

Rory Delap (leg) has struggled to train this week and is doubtful.