Newcastle United

THE ESSENTIAL

Newcastle have confirmed striker Leon Best is facing several weeks on the sidelines as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor is hoping to make a shock return to action before the end of the season, saying: "You need goals in life."

Sylvain Marveaux is set for up to four months out after surgery on his groin and hip. The Newcastle winger limped out of the club's 2-1 victory over Everton and has been to the United States for the operation.

Steve Harper has joined Brighton on loan ahead of their clash with West Ham. The Newcastle goalkeeper, 36, arrives on a one-month loan deal.

Hatem Ben Arfa is set to play for Newcastle in their Carling Cup game against Nottingham Forest after almost 12 months out with an ankle ligament injury.

Alan Pardew has spoken of his frustration after Newcastle did not sign a striker before the transfer window shut. The Toon manager said: "I can only say that, from my point of view, we put the targets in front of the board and then it comes down to financial decisions, and that financial decision didn't take place."

Queens Park Rangers are closing in on the signing of Joey Barton from Newcastle as the midfielder edges closer to leaving St James' Park.

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has been in London for talks with Queens Park Rangers regarding a potential move for the 28-year-old to Loftus Road.

The Carling Cup second round matches - Exeter v Liverpool and Scunthorpe v Newcastle have been chosen for being shown live on SKY Sports. The games will kick-off at 7.45pm on Wednesday 24th August and Thursday 25th August respectively.

Arsene Wenger has left Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas out of the Arsenal squad to face Newcastle with both players expected to leave the club.