LuaLua will stay in Newcastle to recuperate

The 22-year-old forward will stay at home to recuperate after playing for the Democratic Republic of Congo in their successful African Nations' Cup qualifying campaign.

Sir Bobby Robson's squad is due to fly to Kuala Lumpur on Sunday with their first game, against Birmingham, scheduled for Thursday.

"LuaLua was still playing competitive football as recently as 6 July and he only has four days' training under his belt," said Robson.

"Not surprisingly, he is feeling a bit weary and the last thing he wants is a 13-hour plane journey on Sunday and a similar one when we come home.

"Obviously, he is disappointed at missing out on our first games, but he fully understands and accepts the situation."

England defender Jonathan Woodgate is expected to make the trip to the Far East despite damaging a thigh muscle in training.