Dire straits lead Robson to Dyer gamble

Southampton v Newcastle/St Mary's (kick-off 8pm): Kieron Dyer is back in the Newcastle United squad for the crucial Premiership match at Southampton tonight.On TV: Sky Sports 1

Newcastle must win at St Mary's Stadium and at Liverpool on Saturday to take the fourth qualifying place for the Champions League next season, and Bobby Robson said he was willing "to gamble" on Dyer's fitness tonight.

Dyer has missed five games because of a hamstring injury and has appeared in only three fixtures in two months. But his return would give Robson and the Newcastle squad a boost at a time when they are under intense scrutiny from fans on the verge of rebellion.

Dyer's desire to play would also offset comments attributed to Laurent Robert and Hugo Viana yesterday. Both players were booed during Sunday's 1-1 draw with Wolves at St James' Park and Robert told a French magazine that Marseille were interested in him, adding: "However, Marseille might have difficulty matching my wage demands; I would like Paris too." Viana said: "Leaving Newcastle would be something I'd welcome with open arms." Robson shook his head when the subject arose yesterday and said he was aware of the remarks.

Both Robert and Viana are in tonight's squad but it would be the Frenchman's place that Dyer would take.

Dyer will not be used as a substitute, Robson said. "If we decide to play him, we play him and see how long he lasts."

Given that Newcastle have not managed an away goal for seven hours and that Dyer scored twice at St Mary's in the 3-0 FA Cup win in January, it appears he is set to start.

Despite the anger of many Newcastle fans, Robson described the squad's mood as "bright and determined". Of his own, he said: "Can't you tell? I'm fine." It is his 250th game in charge of United.

There is no place for Craig Bellamy, who picked up a hamstring injury in the 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on April 18th, or Jonathan Woodgate and Jermaine Jenas (both thigh), while Ireland's Andy O'Brien completes his two-match ban.

Southampton's Danny Higginbotham has dropped out of contention for a place after having an appendix operation, with Darren Kenton his probable replacement.

Southampton manager Paul Sturrock plans to give striker Brett Ormerod a start to prove he can be part of his squad for next season. Kevin Phillips is likely to start on the bench.