Magpies injuries woes grow

Kevin Keegan admits he would like a stronger Newcastle squad and that continuing injury problems are making life difficult.

Newcastle have started the season brightly, with four points from their opening two league games, but a packed treatment room is giving the manager cause for concern as he looks for a big improvement on last season's showing.

Keegan is already missing Mark Viduka, Shola Ameobi and Andy Carroll and now has concerns over the fitness of Obafemi Martins and Damien Duff, a worry for fans who may be seeking to use their £25 free bet on a successful season for Keegan's men.

The Newcastle manager has hinted that he would like to strenghten the side before the transfer window shuts, but ongoing speculation surrounding the financial future of the Tyneside club means that Keegan's hands could be tied.

Keegan finds himself short of options up front, with Michael Owen only just returning to full fitness, and could be forced to play Alan Smith despite the player's future at the club still unclear.

"I wish I had a stronger squad to take down there and I wish I could just rest one or two players who need it," said Keegan ahead of Newcastle's Carling Cup clash with Coventry.

"But I won't be able to do that. I have just got to pick the very best team I can. We haven't got those riches yet because of injuries."

Keegan has hinted that the almost all the team who take to the field at the Rioch Arena are likely feature in Newcastle's clash with Arsenal this weekend.