Owen Could Be Drafted Into Fray!

Last updated : 24 December 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

The 28-year-old is ready to resume full training after a thigh injury, and although short of match fitness, could be included in the squad, as could full-back Stephen Carr on his return from a hamstring problem.

Abdoulaye Faye (hamstring) is available once again, and Damien Duff, who returned from a long-term foot injury as a substitute against Derby on Sunday, will hope for further action.

Wigan defender Mario Melchiot is available after serving a suspension.

Manager Steve Bruce could also be boosted by the return of Emile Heskey following an ankle injury.

The England striker was forced to sit out the draw against Fulham as did Jason Koumas because of a groin problem and he remains doubtful.

WIGAN (from): Kirkland, Melchiot, Taylor, Boyce, Bramble, Kilbane, Valencia, Brown, Scharner, Landzaat, Koumas, Bent, Heskey, Aghahowa, Granqvist, Olembe, Koumas, Skoko, Cotterill, Hall, Sibierski, Pollitt.

NEWCASTLE (from): Given, Harper, Carr, Beye, N'Zogbia, Enrique, Rozehnal, Cacapa, Taylor, Faye, Edgar, Geremi, Butt, Barton, Milner, Emre, Duff, Smith, Martins, Viduka, Owen.