Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton will make his comeback tonight in the Reserves fixture with Pools at Victoria Park (7pm kick-off).

The 27-year-old has been out of action since undergoing foot surgery in October but came through 45 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Hibernian last Monday.

Now he is set to step up his rehabilitation with a starting spot at The Vic for this evening's Totesport.com League fixture.

Pools Season Ticket holders can get in to the game for free, while regular prices are £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.

Newcastle United: Soderberg, Airey, Barton, Donaldson, Edmundsson, Ferguson, Folan, Godsmark, Leadbitter, Lough, McCrudden, McDermott, McLaughlin, Morris, Baheng, Tozer, Danquah.