Hughton makes nine changes for Magpies

Newcastle boss Chris Hughton turned to his big guns once again as nine of the men who fashioned a midweek Carling Cup victory over Chelsea made way for the game with Stoke.

Summer signings Hatem Ben Arfa and Cheik Tiote were handed first starts at St James’ Park and James Perch returned from suspension as the Magpies looked to end a good week with a third win after their 1-0 success at Everton last Saturday.