N'Gotty Returns For Newcastle Clash

Last updated : 16 January 2007 By Brian Cartlidge

The Blues centre-back, who has not figured in the starting line-up since the 1-0 home defeat to Norwich City at St Andrew's back in October, will return to the starting XI for the game at St James' Park because Radhi Jaidi is serving a one game ban for his sending off against The Magpies in the 2-2 draw against Glen Roeder's side ten days ago.

Right back Stephen Kelly will also be missing from the Blues defence because of a groin injury indicating that manager Steve Bruce could be looking at playing Martin Taylor in the right-back position with N'Gotty partnering Matthew Upson at the heart of the Blues defence.

Elsewhere, Nicklas Bendtner is ruled out with an ankle injury but Cameron Jerome is fit and is likely to partner DJ Campbell in the Blues attack.

New signing Rowan Vine is not available for the game as he is cup-tied having already played a part in the competition for Luton Town before his transfer to Blues last week.