By Craig Hope

NEWCASTLE United trio Steve Harper, Shola Ameobi and Ryan Taylor will return to the squad for Wednesday's friendly with Leeds United at St.James' Park.

Outfield pair Ameobi and Taylor missed Saturday's defeat at Leyton Orient as a matter of precaution following minor niggles while Harper was rested allowing understudies Tim Krul and Fraser Forster to each get a 45-minute outing.

But caretaker boss Chris Hughton told nufc.co.uk on Tuesday that the three players will be back for the clash with Simon Grayson's League One Yorkshiremen.

"All three will be involved," he confirmed.

"We've had a good response to Saturday's defeat during the past couple of days.

"And we'll be looking for the lads to take that into the game."

Tickets for Wednesday's game are as little as £10 (adults) and £5 (concessions). Click here for more details.