Manager Alan Pardew wanted to hand his new Brazilian midfielder, signed on an initial five-month loan deal from Italian side Cesena, his debut against Bolton in the Carling Cup on Tuesday but they did not receive international clearance in time.
Centre-half Dan Seaborne missed the 1-0 midweek defeat with a foot injury and remains a doubt while full-back Frazer Richardson is still on the sidelines with a shoulder injury.
Youngster Aaron Martin was chosen ahead of Radhi Jaidi at centre-back against Bolton and could keep his place after an impressive display.
Striker Rickie Lambert lines up against the club for whom he scored 59 goal in three years.
