AFTER failing to get Andy O'Brien's two-match ban overturned yesterday, Newcastle are facing a defensive crisis ahead of their crucial Premiership games with Wolves and Southampton.

O'Brien will miss both matches and, with Jonathan Woodgate (thigh) and Andy Griffin (Achilles) ruled out for the rest of the season, Sir Bobby Robson is short of options as he looks to keep the Magpies on track for the Champions League.

Titus Bramble is a sure starter - but who will partner the former Ipswich centre-half once O'Brien's suspension begins?

The options appear to be as follows:

1. PLAY STEVEN TAYLOR AT

CENTRE-HALF

Pros - the teenager is a natural centre-half and has already captained England's under-19s in that position.

Cons - his Premiership experience is limited to one full-back appearance at Bolton when he was at fault for the only goal of the game.

2. PLAY ROBBIE ELLIOTT AT CENTRE-HALF

Pros - Elliott has made 194 senior appearances in his career and would not be fazed by being thrown into the fray.

Cons - The 30-year-old has not made a single appearance for Newcastle all season and will not be match sharp.

3. SWITCH AARON HUGHES FROM RIGHT-BACK

Pros - Hughes is a centre-back by trade and slotted in easily after O'Brien was sent off at Aston Villa. Has shown he is a more than able deputy.

Cons - Moving Hughes would create a gap at right-back. With Griffin injured, Darren Ambrose would probably have to slot in at full-back.

4. SWITCH GARY SPEED FROM MIDFIELD

Pros - Speed's tough tackling and heading ability suggest he would make an ideal partner for Bramble at the back.

Cons - The Wales international is untried at centre-half and switching him there would leave a gaping gap at the heart of Newcastle's midfield.

5. RECALL STEPHEN

CALDWELL FROM LEEDS

Pros - Caldwell has been playing at centre-half for Leeds since the end of January and is used to the pace of the Premiership.

Cons - His form at Elland Road has been patchy and Robson clearly doesn't rate him or he wouldn't have sent him out on loan in the first place.

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