Preview: Newcastle United vs. Stoke City

Newcastle boss John Carver has called on the club to make St James' Park a "fortress" ahead of the match against Stoke City on Sunday afternoon.

The Magpies have won just once in four games at home, but after their 3-0 victory away at Hull City, Carver has encouraged an attacking display against the Potters.

Last week's triumph created plenty of breathing space between Newcastle and a relegation battle, while a win on Sunday would see the club move ahead of their opponents in the standings.

Carver is unlikely to make any alterations to his starting lineup, but he is able to welcome back defender Paul Dummett after his recovery from injury.

However, the game has come too soon for midfielder Siem de Jong, who won't be rushed back after an ankle problem.

Stoke travel to the North-East as one of the form sides in the Premier League after registering 13 points from their last six fixtures.

The only defeat during that period came away at Arsenal and although their current run has only been enough to get the Staffordshire outfit to 10th, boss Mark Hughes will be confident that his side can make it five wins from seven outings.

Hughes has been dealt a blow after defender Ryan Shawcross was ruled out for two weeks with a back injury.

However, striker Mame Biram Diouf has returned from international duty, and either he or Peter Crouch could replace Jonathan Walters if the Republic of Ireland international fails a fitness test.

Newcastle United:

Form in Premier League: LWDLLW Form in all competitions: WDLLLW

Possible starting lineup: Krul; Janmaat, Williamson, Coloccini, Haidara; Sissoko, Anita, Colback; Cabella, Perez, Ameobi

Stoke City:

Form in Premier League: WWDLWW Form in all competitions: DWLWWW

Possible starting lineup: Begovic; Bardsley, Muniesa, Wollscheid, Wilson; Nzonzi, Whelan; Arnautovic, Ireland, Moses; Crouch

Sports Mole says: 1-2