NEWCASTLE defender Aaron Hughes is hoping to win a recall for this afternoon's clash against basement side West Bromwich Albion at St James' Park.

The Northern Ireland international was on the bench for last week's 2-1 victory at Southampton after manager Graeme Souness took the precaution of resting his versatile stopper following a knock he received in the bruising UEFA Cup tie against Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin.

But the 24-year-old is one of three possible changes to the United line-up as the Magpies' boss looks to combat the pace of Baggies' new striker Robert Earnshaw. Winger Laurent Robert is another who could get the nod as Souness looks to employ a more offensive look at home to the pragmatic approach he seems to favour on his travels.

The win at St Mary's was not only United's first Premiership victory away from St James' Park in 11 months but the first time they have tasted league success on Saints' patch in 32 years.

Hughes, who yesterday afternoon declared himself fully fit and available for selection against the Midlands side, spoke of his relief at the Magpies finally breaking their south-coast spell.

"It was nice to get a win down there at last after going for so long without a one," said the popular Irishman.

"It has dragged on a bit and when you're constantly reminded of how long it has been all you want to do is just get rid of it."

He added: "I didn't train at all last week and went on the bench at Southampton just in case. I didn't train on Monday but I've trained every day since.

"I'm fit and I'm putting myself up for selection but at the end of the day it is up to the manager what team he picks.

"The back four have done really well in my absence but I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed and see what happens.

"Robbie Elliott has come in after being away for a long time and done really well. The partnership with Andy O'Brien has only conceded one goal in the last three games and it is good for themselves and the team when you get a run like that going.

"We've got a tough match coming up against West Brom. Everyone thinks it is going to be an easy game and three points but it's not going to be like that. They are a battling side and we have to make sure we work as hard as they do.

"If we do that we have a good chance of getting three points."

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