Skeletal Eagles to hold Magpies
Newcastle v Crystal Palace
Championship leaders Newcastle will be looking to bounce back from FA Cup omission when they lock horns with Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.
The Magpies lost 4-2 at promotion rivals West Brom on Saturday, just six days after the sides drew 2-2 at St James’ Park.
But United have not been beaten in the league since October so will be confident of conquering the Eagles and reaffirming their status as the second tier’s top dogs.
Toon boss Chris Hughton does have a few defensive headaches, though, with Steven Taylor (knee), Ryan Taylor (banned) and recent permanent recruit Danny Simpson (ankle) all on the sidelines.
The 51-year-old is unlikely to have Portsmouth centre-back Mike Williamson in his ranks in time to face the Londoners, meaning he will have to blood some of his promising youngsters or play a few of his more experienced men, such as fit-again Nicky Butt, out of position.
Hughton – whose side have drawn their last three league matches – is also in the market for attacking reinforcements, with Malmo’s Nigerian striker Edward Ofere in his sights after injury prevented Marlon Harewood from returning for a second loan spell.
Newcastle may have had a miserable cup weekend but Crystal Palace had a good one, forcing a replay with a 2-2 stalemate at Premier League Wolves, despite only being able to name five substitutes.
Neil Warnock’s side – who will host Carling Cup finalists Aston Villa should they topple Wanderers – have lost just twice in their previous 15 games in all competitions and are right in the play-off mix.
However, the Eagles’ cash worries means they may be forced to sell some of their prized assets before the transfer window slams shut, with teenage winger Victor Moses and 14-goal top scorer Darren Ambrose the Londoners’ most marketable commodities.
The Croydon-based outfit have been beaten in eight of their last 10 league and cup meetings with the Magpies, including a 2-0 reverse at Selhurst Park in August.
But Palace’s success this season has been built on steely resolve and even with a threadbare squad, they can leave St James’ Park with a point.
Verdict: Newcastle 2-2 Crystal Palace