Team News: Hatem Ben Arfa fails late fitness test ahead of Manchester City match

Hatem Ben Arfa has failed a late fitness test and will miss Newcastle United's Premier League clash with Manchester City this afternoon.

The France international midfielder picked up a hamstring injury during Monday night's 2-1 defeat to Fulham.

He is replaced in the starting XI by James Perch, as Magpies boss Alan Pardew makes just one change.

City make three changes following their 3-2 loss to Manchester United.

Kolo Toure replaces Vincent Kompany, who has a groin injury, while Carlos Tevez and Javi Garcia come in for Mario Balotelli and Gareth Barry.

Newcastle: Krul; Simpson, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon; Perch, Tiote, Anita; Cisse, Ba, Gutierrez Subs: Elliot, Tavernier, Ferguson, Bigirimana, Marveaux, Sammy Ameobi, Shola Ameobi

Man City: Hart; Zabaleta, K Toure, Nastasic, Clichy; Garcia, Y Toure; Nasri, Silva, Tevez; Aguero Subs: Pantilimon, Kolarov, Lescott, Sinclair, Razak, Rekik, Dzeko