Everton visit St James's Park undefeated in league action this season and buoyed by striker Andy Johnson's instant impact following his 8.5 million pounds (16 million dollars) close-season transfer from Crystal Palace.

And there is no doubt the Magpies could benefit from a predator of Johnson's pedigree following the retirement of record goalscorer Alan Shearer and a career threatening injury to Michael Owen.

Nigerian-born forward Shola Ameobi is postponing a hip operation until January to aid Newcastle until the transfer window reopens in the New Year but the former England Under 21 international is playing in constant pain.

In addition, United's 10 million pounds (19 million dollars) summer signing from Inter Milan, striker Obafemi Martins, is still struggling to shake off the after effects of a virus picked up during pre-season in Italy.

And Magpies' manager Glenn Roeder admits the pair need time on the training pitch to forge an effective partnership -- time the duo have been denied as a result of Newcastle's hectic schedule and their lack of fitness.

"As a coach I would like to work with Shola and Oba aside from the normal training sessions to help them gain an understanding," said the former West Ham United boss.

"But with two games a week it is a case of playing, resting, playing and resting. There has not been an opportunity to sit down with the two of them properly.

"Shola needs an operation in January but he will be out for three months when he has the surgery. That's why we have our scouts scouring Europe for a powerful striker ready for when the transfer window reopens."

Roeder will hand late fitness tests to central defenders Titus Bramble and Steven Taylor after both players returned to full training this week.

Peruvian playmaker Nolberto Solano is still sidelined with a hamstring injury but Kieron Dyer hopes to return to first team action in October following a five-month lay-off.

With his team sitting fourth, two points off leaders Portsmouth, Everton manager David Moyes will keep faith with central defender Joleon Lescott after the club's summer signing from Wolverhampton impressed in place of the injured Alan Stubbs.

The former England Under 21 international said: "I'm doing well but I know that the slightest mistake and someone will take over from me.

"Things are going well for me and for the team as a whole. But I have to keep my feet on the ground."