The influential Australia international is still to return to training after suffering a calf injury two weeks ago but has not been ruled out by boss David Moyes.

Phil Jagielka, recently returned from a long-term knee injury, is doubtful due to a slight thigh strain, as is Leon Osman after a blow to the foot.

Top scorer Louis Saha (hamstring) is again ruled out and James Vaughan will be assessed after suffering a knock playing for the reserves in midweek. In defence, Philippe Senderos (hip) is hoping to prove his fitness but Tony Hibbert (groin) is still out. Marouane Fellaini (ankle) will miss the rest of the season.

Provisional squad: Howard, Neville, Heitinga, Distin, Baines, Anichebe, Osman, Rodwell, Arteta, Pienaar, Yakubu, Yobo, Jagielka, Bilyaletdinov, Donovan, Vaughan, Gosling, Senderos, Cahill, Coleman, Baxter, Duffy, Nash.