Barton in line for Magpies recall

Joey Barton could make a surprise return to the Newcastle squad for tomorrow’s trip to Arsenal.

Barton, who is due to face Football Association disciplinary chiefs next Friday after admitting a charge of violent conduct, may be drafted in following James Milner’s departure for Aston Villa and the news that Geremi has a knee ligament injury.

Michael Owen could start with manager Kevin Keegan down to the bare bones with Obafemi Martins (groin), Mark Viduka (Achilles), Damien Duff (knee), Claudio Cacapa (hamstring) and Andy Carroll (heel) all sidelined.

Provisional squad: Given, Harper, Beye, N’Zogbia, Taylor, Coloccini, Enrique, Bassong, Tozer, Edgar, Butt, Geremi, Guthrie, Barton, Jonas, Smith, Owen, Donaldson, Ranger.