The Truth About Ben Arfa?

Alan Pardew admits that Hatem Ben Arfa's hamstring problem which is something of a mystery. Ben Arfa has no ill effects after what was his first game in two-and-a-half weeks. But the scan results suggest otherwise, and the feeling is that the player will not be risked for the visit of the champions. But . are Pardew and Mancini playing mind-games? Because that is the impression they are giving. Mancini claims his skipper, Vincent Kompany, has a "2% chance of playing" . and Pardew says the same about Ben Arfa. But don't rule out both players suddenly being blessed with miracles - and starting the game on Saturday. Alan Pardew: “We’ve got a strange situation with him in that he feels unrestricted, but the scan does not suggest that – we can’t afford to take a gamble with him. “So my gut feeling is he won’t play.” His absence is likely to mean a recall for either James Perch or Shola Ameobi, with Sylvain Marveaux also doubtful. Meanwhile, Gabriel Obertan (toe) remains sidelined, but could return for the QPR game next weekend.   Source: Newcastle United Mad

Source: FOOTYMAD