At hooker Tani Fuga replaces Ace Tiatia who starts on the bench, while in the backline Mel Deane returns in place of Chris Bell, George Harder replaces Rob Jewell and Ugo Monye comes onto the wing in place of Simon Keogh, who moves into the scrum half position in place of Scott Bemand who will also start on the bench.

Paul Burke and Mike Worsley were not considered for this game, Paul is still not quite 100% fit following the rib injury he suffered back in November against Bath, while Mike Worsley will start in the second XV against Bath on Monday evening, but was not considered for this weekend as he has not undertaken a full scrumaging session since recovering from his injury.

"This is a very important game for us on Sunday" Said NEC Harlequins Chief Executive Mark Evans. "We are currently five points behind the third position and with Northampton and London Irish playing each other this weekend, both ourselves and Newcastle need to win this fixture if we are to stay in touch with them. Although we have picked up three points from our last two away games, we have been pleased with the way that we have played. We know that Newcastle will be very difficult to beat at Kingston Park, and that if we are to do so we must get our basics right, and we must keep our error count down. However, it is pleasing to have so many players back and available for selection, particularly as both Paul (Burke) and Mike (Worsley) are only a week away as well. We are looking forward to a tough physical encounter in the North East".