Source: PA
Duo set for debuts
New signings Leon Best and Fitz Hall will hope for Newcastle debuts in the home Championship showdown with Cardiff.
Best, the former Coventry striker, and defender Hall, signed on loan from QPR, will be included in the squad as the Magpies attempt to stretch their lead at the top of the table to six points.
Shola Ameobi (shoulder), Danny Simpson and Jonas Gutierrez (both ankle) are fit once again and teenage full-back Patrick van Aanholt, on loan from Chelsea, could be in line to make his first appearance at St James' Park.
However, Steven Taylor (knee) and Jose Enrique (hamstring) will be missing one again while midfielder Joey Barton is continuing his fight for full fitness after returning to training after a foot injury.
