 SIR ALEX Ferguson has given Danny Simpson the nod to play in Newcastle United's Carling Cup tie with Huddersfield Town on Wednesday night. Fergie is happy for right-back Simpson to be cup-tied against Lee Clark’s Terriers, meaning that caretaker boss Chris Hughton has the chance to stick with a winning team with no fresh injury worries emerging from Saturday’s superb 2-0 win at Crystal Palace. However, Hughton is more than certain to make those changes with Joey Barton expected to return from a foot injury and Andy Carroll’s groin injury meaning the Geordie striker is also ready to come back with the pair not travelling to Selhurst Park. Hughton told the Chronicle: “It's something I've got to very much think over in the next couple of days. “It’s normal that everyone wants to play as many games as possible, but we have a squad of players, and what you have to be able to do is use that squad.” Hughton is mulling over whether to give teenage Londoner Nile Ranger his first start in a black and white shirt after the youngster gained more experience with a 24-minute run-out against the Eagles. And he may also look to reward Tim Krul with a start against the Terriers following his heroics at West Brom at the start of the month. Hughton instantly recalled Steve Harper to the fray after he recovered from a head knock and his response has been nothing short of brilliant with three clean sheets in a row. Yet with United still facing another 43 games in the Championship and at least two cup games, Hughton concerned that some of his squad members require a breather, despite their outstanding contributions so far. And this means that Geremi, Xisco, Kazenga LuaLua and Tamas Kadar will also come into contention. Hughton added: "I'm quite sure that there will be opportunities for some on Wednesday night. I also have to be mindful we've got a squad of players we need to use." United will have a selection of pay-on-the- night turnstiles in operation against Huddersfield, with prices as low as £15 for adults, £10 for OAPs and students and £5 for children. | 
Article
