Ameobi ready to step into Craig's shoes

Manager Bobby Robson has given the rangy striker the nod ahead of Carl Cort and Lomana Lua Lua for the visit of the Gunners. Robson said today: "Cort is fit and ready but I am going to stay with Ameobi. He is a good professional and he has been very patient, so he will get the nod" Cort is likely to take up a place on the bench alongside Lua Lua.

Newcastle were dealt a blow today with the news that Craig Bellamy is likely to be out for four to six weeks, as his knee injury has turned out worse than feared. Bellamy was re-examined yesterday, and this second scan revealed a slight tear in the tendon, as well as slight tendonitis. This injury is very similar to the one that nearly ended Alan Shearer's career, so Newcastle will not rush Bellamy back. Robson said: "He just need to rest - it can't be rushed"