SHOLA Ameobi has been promoted to Newcastle United's starting line-up for this evening's game with Everton to replace Demba Ba.

Ba is currently in London discussing the personal terms of a proposed £7.5m move to Chelsea.

Chelsea officials triggered the buy-out clause in Ba's Newcastle contract earlier today, and Magpies manager Alan Pardew was powerless to prevent the striker travelling south.

In his absence, Shola Ameobi will lead the line as Newcastle look to bounce back from Saturday's dramatic 7-3 defeat at Arsenal.

In total, Pardew has made three changes to the side that lost at the Emirates, with Mike Williamson returning to the back four and James Perch switching to right-back to replace the injured Danny Simpson.

Vurnon Anita has passed a pre-match fitness test and replaces Gael Bigirimana at the heart of midfield.

France international Mathieu Debuchy has been spotted at St James' Park as he prepares to complete a £5.5m move from Lille.