Striker in Swansea fitness battle

Striker Andy Carroll faces a late fitness test as he battles to overcome a cold ahead of Newcastle's home game against Swansea tomorrow

Carroll has been struggling with the virus for the last week but managed to play an hour of Newcastle's 1-0 win at Preston at the start of the week.
Boss Chris Hughton is anxious to give the striker as long as possible to recover and will leave a decision his fitness until shortly before kick-off.
New signing Fabrice Pancrate, Peter Lovenkrands and Nile Ranger are in contention to take his place if he is declared unfit, but the game is likely to come too soon for Shola Ameobi following his lengthy absence with a foot injury.
Ryan Taylor and Danny Simpson could also be forced to miss the clash at St James' Park with calf and thigh injuries respectively.