Shearer back for Magpies

Newcastle skipper Alan Shearer returned to the starting line-up for this afternoon’s clash with Birmingham after being rested last weekend.

The 35-year-old, who scored after coming on as a substitute at West Bromwich Albion last Sunday, replaced Shola Ameobi in one of two changes.

Titus Bramble was drafted in for Jean-Alain Boumsong, who did not train fully yesterday, while Charles N’Zogbia retained his place after being allowed compassionate leave following the death of his father.

Birmingham boss Steve Bruce made three changes with on-loan Magpies’ midfielder Nicky Butt one of those missing as Muzzy Izzet and Stan Lazaridis shook off injuries and 19-year-old Neil Kilkenny was handed just his second Premiership start.

Newcastle: Given, Ramage, Taylor, Bramble, Babayaro, Solano, Parker, Emre, N’Zogbia, Shearer, Owen. Subs: Elliott, Harper, Faye, Clark, Ameobi.

Birmingham: Maik Taylor, Cunningham, Martin Taylor, Upson, Clapham, Pennant, Izzet, Kilkenny, Lazaridis, Jarosik, Heskey. Subs: Pandiani, Forssell, Vaesen, Tebily, Painter.

Referee: M Dean (Cheshire)