Boss Wants Squad Fit And Firing

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Newcastle United have no fresh injury worries ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with West Bromwich Albion (3pm kick-off).

And manager Alan Pardew is keen for his side to up their game ahead of the Baggies' arrival at St. James' Park.

United were in Europa League action on Thursday, beating Club Brugge 1-0, and came through that test unscathed, resting the likes of Tim Krul, Danny Simpson, Mike Williamson, Jonas Gutierrez, Hatem Ben Arfa and Demba Ba.

But Cheick Tiote will miss out this weekend as he begins a three-game suspension, joining long-term absentees Ryan Taylor (knee), Haris Vuckic (knee) and Dan Gosling (ankle) on the sidelines.

"Thankfully we are okay (in terms of injuries), because it is tough playing Thursday, Sunday," explained Pardew.

"We are seeing a little difficulty in our stats in terms of getting the performance levels we want on a Sunday. We hope to get that right this week.

"We need to play well on Sunday because West Brom are going to be a tough cookie. They have started the season exceptionally well."

That start has seen the Baggies already triumph over the likes of Liverpool and Everton, while coming desperately close to getting something from their home fixture against Premier League champions Manchester City last weekend.

It has drawn comparisons with Newcastle's strong opening to the 2011/12 campaign, and Pardew can see the similarities.

"It's difficult to sustain a good start," he admitted, however.

"We managed to do that, but that's West Brom's next goal and Steve Clarke will be very much aware of that, especially after their last result.

"They will looking to continue that good start against us, so we have to be on our guard because they will come here with renewed vigour."

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