Preview: Newcastle United vs. Everton

A lot of the talk heading into this encounter has surrounded the future of Newcastle United striker Demba Ba.

Despite reports linking the Senegalese international with Chelsea and a host of other European clubs, he is expected to start for the visit of Everton to Tyneside.

Ba's compatriot Papiss Cisse could drop to the bench for this fixture, with Shola Ameobi thought to be in contention for a starting role.

Meanwhile, Everton will be boosted by the return of Belgium international and leading goalscorer Marouane Fellaini. The attacking midfielder has missed the club's last three matches for headbutting Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross.

Captain Phil Neville may also return, having sat out Sunday's 2-1 loss to Chelsea.

St James' Park has not been the happiest of hunting grounds for Everton, who have won just 18 times from 80 meetings.

Recent form

Newcastle: WWWLLD

Everton: WDDLWW

Possible starting lineups:

Newcastle: Krul; Simpson, Perch, Coloccini, Santon; Bigirimana, Tiote, Marveaux, Obertan; Ameobi, Ba

Everton: Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Neville, Osman, Fellaini, Naismith; Jelavic, Anichebe

Sports Mole says: 1-1