Boss Makes Changes In Search Of Form

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Newcastle United have changed their preparations for this weekend's Barclays Premier League fixture against West Ham United, as manager Alan Pardew bids to shake off any post-European fatigue.

By Pardew's own admission, the Magpies have struggled to hit top gear in the top flight match immediately after a Europa League tie this term.

So, following their trip to Club Brugge on Thursday night, the boss has tinkered with the way his troops will build up to face the Hammes at St. James' Park.

"Of course we want to win, we are desperate for a win," explained Pardew.

"We've played really well this year but drawn perhaps two games too many, which should have been wins.

"But I can't complain. The players have given me absolutely everything, we are up against a good side and are looking forward to it.

"We've reviewed our recovery strategy and done something different this time, and we hope to get the benefits this Sunday.

"From the last Sunday games after the Thursday we haven't been at our best, and West Ham are in good form so we need to be very good."

Newcastle will be without captain Fabricio Coloccini, who begins a three-game ban for his sending off at Liverpool last weekend, while central midfielder Cheick Tiote completes his own three-match suspension.

James Perch will miss out with a thigh injury, joining Ryan Taylor (knee), Dan Gosling (ankle) and Haris Vuckic (knee) on the sidelines.

Pardew said: "We've a slight doubt about Sammy Ameobi but we are hoping he is going to be okay.

"Everybody else is fine - Demba's fit and is looking forward to playing against his old club, as a number of players are."