Tim K-ruled out with injury

Thursday's tremendous victory over Metalist Kharkiv came at a cost, with Tim Krul taking a knock towards the end and arriving back on Tyneside on crutches and with his ankle in a cast. The Dutchman is expected to be out of action for up to five weeks - a serious blow, especially given his exceptional second-half display in Ukraine.

With Steve Harper also struggling for fitness, that means Rob Elliot is set to take his Premier League bow against Southampton. After shaky beginnings in a friendly and a League Cup tie, Elliot has looked more assured and with a full-strength defence ahead of him should be afforded decent protection. Here's hoping he seizes his chance - and any shots and crosses that the Saints rain in on him - with both hands.

Santon is coming to Toon

Confirmation, last night, that our quest for a left-back has now been completed, with the arrival of Davide Santon for around £5m from Inter Milan. With 'keeper Rob Elliot also arriving yesterday for an undisclosed fee from Charlton (who presumably will drop their tapping-up claim), we've filled two of the gaps which recent departures have left in our squad.

With less than 14 hours to go until the transfer window closes, .com report that we're still looking to add a couple of players to the squad. Logically one must be the striker we've been lacking since the closure of the last transfer window.

Whether the other is a midfielder to replace the departed ASBO or further defensive cover following Mike Williamson's recent injury remains to be seen.

Here's hoping we're able to report on further arrivals and no departures as the day unfolds.