CHEIK TIOTE returns to Newcastle United's starting line-up for this afternoon's Premier League game with Arsenal.

Tiote missed the Boxing Day win over Stoke City through suspension, but is restored to Alan Pardew's side today.

The Ivory Coast international replaces Hatem Ben Arfa in the only change to the side that beat Stoke 5-1 three days ago.

Tiote will play alongside Vurnon Anita at the base of midfield, with Yohan Cabaye pushed into a more prominent attacking position.

Arsenal are without Mesut Ozil as they look to return to the top of the table, with the German not having travelled to Tyneside.

NEWCASTLE (4-2-3-1): Krul; Debuchy, Coloccini, Williamson, Santon; Tiote, Anita; Sissoko, Cabaye, Gouffran; Remy.

Subs: Elliot (gk), Yanga-Mbiwa, Haidara, Sammy Ameobi, Shola Ameobi, Ben Arfa, Cisse.

ARSENAL (4-1-4-1): Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs; Flamini; Walcott, Wilshere, Cazorla, Rosicky; Giroud.

Subs: Fabianski (gk), Jenkinson, Miyaichi, Gnabry, Arteta, Podolski, Bendtner.