Barton starts for Magpies

Joey Barton was handed his first start for Newcastle since leaving prison as Joe Kinnear looked for his first Premier League victory at the third attempt.

Barton, who last appeared at St James’ Park on May 5, was included in place of the injured Nicky Butt in one of three changes to the side which lost 2-1 at Sunderland on Saturday.

There were returns too for Argentinian winger Jonas Gutierrez and Spanish full-back Jose Enrique, with Geremi and Sebastien Bassong making way.

West Brom boss Tony Mowbray made just one change to the side beaten 3-0 at home by Hull as midfielder Chris Brunt replaced striker Ishmael Miller.