MIKE Williamson and Mathieu Debuchy have returned to the Newcastle United back four for this afternoon's crucial Premier League game at QPR.

With Aston Villa having failed to beat Chelsea yesterday, the Magpies know that a win will guarantee their top-flight survival ahead of the final day of the season.

However, if Newcastle fail to claim their second away win of the season at Loftus Road, they will remain just three points clear of Wigan ahead of the Latics' trip to Arsenal for their penultimate fixture on Tuesday.

Williamson replaces Steven Taylor, who has remained on Tyneside as he is ill with a virus.

Debuchy returns after missing last weekend's goalless draw with West Ham because of suspension, and replaces Danny Simpson at right-back.

Despite his side's relegation to the Championship, QPR boss Harry Redknapp has named a strong starting line-up, with former Newcastle transfer target Loic Remy partnering Bobby Zamora in attack.

QPR (4-4-2): Green; Bosingwa, Hill, Ohuoha, Traore; Townsend, Jenas, Mbia, Hoilett; Remy, Zamora.

Subs: Murphy (gk), Derry, Fabio, Park, Granero, Taarabt, Mackie.

NEWCASTLE (4-3-3): Elliot; Debuchy, Coloccini, Williamson, Yanga-Mbiwa; Cabaye, Tiote, Gutierrez; Ben Arfa, Cisse, Gouffran.

Subs: Harper (gk), Simpson, Perch, Anita, Marveaux, Obertan, Campbell.