Early Team News

Last updated : 09 February 2005 By Gary Fish
Definitely out of tonight's game are:

John Hartson
Ryan Giggs
Gavin Williams
Robbie Savage
Gareth Roberts

It was expected that Tosh would try a 4-2-3-1 formation, however, with the pitch cutting up badly and certain key players with doubts already he may air on the side of caution and put an even more understrength side out.

Danny Coyne will start in goal, while Bellamy will also start, and it's expected will be partnered up front now by Earnshaw in Hartson's absence.

Major problems at the back mean full-back Sam Ricketts will make his debut, as will Sunderland's centre-back Danny Collins, partnered by Rob Page, who is believed to be made captain for the evening. Rhys Weston should start at right back with Delaney out of the side despite picking up a knock on Sunday.

The midfield will see Simon Davies play on the right, with Koumas filling a role he has struggled in down the left flank following Ryan Giggs' withdrawl. Carl Robinson and Fletcher should take the central midfield roles in a 4-4-2 formation.