Game On! Newcastle v Wigan

Game On at a floodlit SJP If it is possible to have so-called "six-pointers" before Christmas then this match most definitely comes under that category.

A win at all costs is what is required to put a temporary halt to an alarming run of form which has seen Newcastle start to look at the relegation spots rather than trying to replicate European qualification that we managed last season.

The fixture list has not been kind but that is the price you pay for being in Europe and now Alan Pardew must prepare his threadbare squad for three games in a week, starting this evening with the visit of Wigan Athletic, who themselves will be looking for three points for the very same reason we are.

As mentioned in my match preview, both sides have a whole host of players out of action this evening so both managers will have to try and make do the best with what they have available. Some other titbits from my match preview include a history of the fixture, recent for guide and some fun facts and stats ahead of the match. You can read it by clicking here.

The game is live on Sky tonight which is probably a bad thing given how we've been playing in recent weeks. However it's a good thing if you want to dodge the cold or are unable to take advantage of the cheap tickets on offer this evening. There should be streams available so normal rules apply and if you come across a decent one please leave a link to it in the 'comments' section below.

As ever team news will be updated in full below as and when it becomes available.

Howay the lads!

Newcastle (4-2-3-1): Tim Krul; Danny Simpson, Mike Williamson, Fabricio Coloccini, Davide Santon; Cheik Tiote, Vurnon Anita; Papiss Cisse, Sylvain Marveaux, Jonas Gutierrez; Demba Ba

Subs; Steve Harper, James Tavernier, Shane Ferguson, Gael Bigirimana, Sammy Ameobi, Shola Ameobi, Nile Ranger

Wigan: Ali Al-Habsi, Maynor Figueroa, Gary Caldwell, Emerson Boyce, Ronnie Stam, James McCarthy, David Jones, Jordi Gomez, Jean Beausejour, Franco Di Santo, Aroune Kone,

Subs: Mike Pollitt, Romain Golobart, Adrian Lopez, Fraser Fyvie, James McArthur, Mauro Boselli, Callum McManaman