Preview: West Bromwich Albion vs. Newcastle United

West Bromwich Albion caretaker manager Keith Downing is expected to remain in charge of the Baggies against Newcastle United with the club still to appoint a new head coach.

Downing has guided West Brom to three successive draws, and the West Midlands outfit sit just two points above the relegation zone.

Midfielder Claudio Yacob and Morgan Amalfitano could be recalled to the starting lineup.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew will be encouraged by his side's form throughout December, but the Magpies did lose 1-0 at home to Arsenal on Sunday.

Pardew could bring creative midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa back into his team for the trip to The Hawthorns.

Recent form

West Bromwich Albion: LLLDDD

Newcastle United: LWDWWL

Possible starting lineups

West Bromwich Albion: Foster; Jones, Ridgewell, Olsson, McAuley; Yacob, Morrison, Brunt, Amalfitano; Anelka, Berahino

Newcastle United: Krul; Debuchy, Santon, Williamson, Coloccini; Tiote, Sissoko, Ben Arfa, Cabaye, Gouffran; Remy

Sports Mole says: 1-2