Newcastle midfielder Emre returns to the squad after completing his three-match ban.

Striker Mark Viduka could return from the calf injury which has prevented him from playing under new boss Kevin Keegan to date, but full-back Jose Enrique remains a doubt with a similar injury.

Joey Barton could figure at St James' Park for the first time since December 23, but David Rozehnal has left the club to join Lazio on loan with Habib Beye and Abdoulaye Faye on their way back to Tyneside, although not in time for the Boro game.

Gareth Southgate will be able to give club record signing Afonso Alves his debut in Middlesbrough's match at Newcastle on Sunday if the Brazilian's application for a work visa is accepted in time.

As well as waiting on the former Heerenveen striker, the Boro boss has concerns over the fitness of Jeremie Aliadiere (groin), who played

in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Wigan, and Emanuel Pogatetz (ankle), who missed the midweek match.

Turkey striker Tuncay Sanli (hamstring) is definitely out, which means Mido could start for the first time this year.