The best guess from that statement is that there will be a number of other changes to the team as well but with a strong bench, a bench very likely to include Ben Arfa himself.
Newcastle United see the knockout competitions as an also-ran with a chance to play squad members, the only show in town is trying to finish top ten in the Premier League due to the financial rewards.
The manager is obviously never going to put a team out that he will call second choice but it remains to be seen whether the side he puts out will have the fans agreeing it is a ‘strong’ line-up.
However, I do think we’ll do it in ninety minutes and the prize of a place in the last 16 and the possibility of another kind home draw should surely be all the incentive our lot need…shouldn’t it?
Keegan’s rant, Shearer’s first from open play, infamous purple shirt, Ketsbaia’s last minute equaliser, Boxing Day delight, Clarence Acuna, Nobby’s last minute winner, Dyer’s goals, Shearer’s opening day point saver…
While the number of Newcastle fans in attendance may be affected by this Saturday’s defeat to Hull City, Leeds are expecting their biggest away following of the season.
On the pitch it is a golden chance for Newcastle to reach the heady heights of round four and on the terraces it should be a decent atmosphere as Leeds will make a day of it.