Injury-hit Coventry City set for Newcastle United clash

CHRIS COLEMAN is forced to field an understrength side in tonight's Ricoh Arena showcase against Premier League Newcastle United.

But the Sky Blues' boss is still hoping to plot a Carling Cup upset against his former Fulham manager, Kevin Keegan, and has already bolstered his midfield by switching hard man Aron Gunnarsson back to his preferred central role.

Marcus Hall looks likely to return to the side at left-back with Danny Fox switching to the right to cover for the injured Stephen Wright.

"I think this game would be ideal if we were going in full strength," said the City boss who confirmed that Wright (Achilles), striker Freddy Eastwood (groin) and goal-keeper Keiren Westwood (thumb) will all be missing tonight.

"With us playing a Premier League team in the cup in front of a big crowd, to take a scalp like that would give you a bit of confidence.

"On the other hand we are coming up against a good, strong team who have had a good start to their season and we have got to be careful that it doesn't turn into a thumping.

"We have lost 3-0 at home to Bristol City in a game full of incident and we are going into the Newcastle game under-strength and it is going to be a tough, tough game.

We are the under-dogs but there is always a chance of an upset.

"I am glad it has come round quickly after our first defeat of the season because it gives us the chance to put a good performance in ahead of Doncaster on Saturday.

"We want to put on a good show for the supporters and test Newcastle, and the pressure is on them."