Defender Ciaran Clark again misses out for Newcastle because of injury, but midfielder Issac Hayden (ankle) returns after a nine-game absence.
Striker Daryl Murphy, goalkeeper Rob Elliot and defender Grant Hanley are all fit despite withdrawing from international duty.
Wigan will definitely be without full-back Andy Kellett, who has a season-ending knee injury.
Striker Will Grigg is also a major doubt with his own knee problem.
Analysis
Paul Rowley, BBC Radio Manchester
On the face of it, the Latics have no chance. Next to bottom in the table, seven points from safety, with just one win in their last seven matches, away to a footballing giant seemingly heading back to their rightful home in the Premier League.