Newcastle interim manager Joe Kinnear has taken charge of training for the first time as he looks to bring some stability to the troubled club.
The Magpies have been without a manager since Kevin Keegan left the club, with Chris Hughton put in temporary charge.
Kinnear had a first look at his new squad on Tuesday after giving his players Monday off as he familiarised himself with his new surroundings.
"We decided to give the players a day off for a variety of reasons," he said.
"One is the fact that we are not playing until Sunday this week.
"And then it gave me the chance to go into the training ground yesterday and have a long chat with all my coaching and backroom staff.
606: DEBATE"As a result, I knew all I had to know when the players came in today."
With the club's future off the pitch still unclear as owner Mike Ashley continues his search for a buyer, Kinnear will look to restore some pride on it after five straight defeats since Keegan's departure at the beginning of September.
Newcastle have not been helped by a series of injuries and suspensions, but they will be boosted by the return of Danny Guthrie, who has completed his three-match ban.
Spanish full-back Jose Enrique could also return for Sunday's trip to Everton after shaking off a hamstring injury.
"I have had a long chat with Chris Hughton and our medical team and the only one of the injured players we are likely to have back on Sunday is Jose Enrique," added Kinnear.
"That will give us a boost, as will having Danny Guthrie back from suspension.
"Unfortunately, the key players we have got missing could make us a better side. Chris says there are six players who, if fit, could be in the team."
The need for players, particularly in defence, has also led to some reports linking right-back Stephen Carr, who has been without a club since leaving Newcastle in the summer, with a return to St James' Park.
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