Gareth Barry available for Manchester United clash but Nacer Chadli and Matt Phillips won't be risked

Barry is expected to return to the squad after his thigh pull, but may find it difficult to get back into the team after the midfield performed well in Wednesday's battling draw at Anfield.

Chadli is back in training following his hip injury but is not yet ready to feature in a game, and Craig Dawson is also closing in on a return from his knee problem.

Phillips is nearly ready to play but will not be risked against Manchester United because he doesn't feel 100 per cent.

“I had a chat with him, he’s feeling his hamstring and you can’t be apprehensive about them," said Alan Pardew.

"Sometimes if the player hasn’t got the confidence to fully go and open up in terms of a sprint then you’re in dangerous territory.

“That’s where he is, he’s really that close, but that final bit is a little bit of confidence

“And sometimes when you do that, you get another tear as it’s too early. I’ve said to him ‘let’s go for caution’ rather than push it - much as I would like him back. He’s got a chance for Stoke.

"Gareth Barry will be in contention to play (against United). In these types of games it's very important to have Barry's experience.

"Nacer Chadli probably needs a bit more training really to be involved for this one but he's back in training.

"The result the other night and having a few more players back on the training ground has given everyone a lift.

"Brunty's back, Barry will be fine, Chadli's back on the training ground, Dawson's running around and getting close. We're getting our numbers back."

James Morrison is still sidelined with an Achilles problem.