No Balotelli for City against Newcastle

Striker Mario Balotelli was conspicuous by his absence at Newcastle as Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini looked for a reaction to their derby day defeat.

The Italian, who was hauled off during the 3-2 home loss to rivals Manchester United, made way along with the suspended Gareth Barry and the injured Vincent Kompany as Carlos Tevez, Javi Garcia and Kolo Toure were recalled.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew had to do without dangerman Hatem Ben Arfa, who returned from a hamstring injury in Monday night’s 2-1 defeat at Fulham, after he suffered a recurrence with James Perch taking his place.

Newcastle: Krul, Simpson, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon, Perch, Tiote, Anita, Gutierrez, Cisse, Ba.

Subs: Elliot, Bigirimana, Marveaux, Shola Ameobi, Sammy Ameobi, Ferguson, Tavernier.

Man City: Hart, Zabaleta, Nastasic, Toure, Clichy, Silva, Javi Garcia, Toure, Nasri, Aguero, Tevez.

Subs: Pantilimon, Lescott, Dzeko, Sinclair, Kolarov, Rekik, Razak.

Referee: Andre Marriner (W Midlands)