Newcastle travel to Heerenveen desperate for a result to ignite what has been a hugely disappointing campaign at St James' Park.
Toon boss Graeme Souness has been left in no doubt what the black and white army expect and he will be keen to prove his new look side's credentials in Europe.
Poor league form has left them languishing in mid-table mediocrity but, on the continent, Newcastle have looked assured and will be confident of claiming a solid result in Holland.
Souness' main concern is his midfield where an improving Kieron Dyer has been ruled out with a viral infection, which is also threatening the participation of Jermaine Jenas.
Nicky Butt remains a long-term concern, leaving Newcastle devoid of depth in midfield options.
France international Jean-Alain Boumsong is ineligible, which means a call-up for young defender Peter Ramage.
It is expected that Patrick Kluivert, who has been moved recently to pledge his long-term future to the club, will be handed a rare opportunity to impress in his homeland alongside Alan Shearer.
Souness will be well aware that winning the Uefa Cup is Newcastle's most likely route back into Europe next season and consequently, is taking the competition seriously.
"The Uefa Cup is a big competition for us. We know we can go a long way to getting into the next round if we do the job properly there,'' said Souness.
"What we must do is give a good account of ourselves. We have watched them and they are a good side, but if we play like we can, we are a good side too."
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Originally Posted by DanB
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