BEYE HOPING FOR REPRIEVE

The Magpies have launched an appeal against the 31-year-old Senegal international's 12th-minute dismissal for a challenge on Manchester City star Robinho in Monday night's 2-2 draw at St James' Park.

"For me, that was the start of my season and I am devastated by the decision," said Beye. "I wouldn't have made the tackle if I didn't think I could have got the ball, and that's why I am so disappointed."

He added: "It was my first game back for some time after my injury, and to be sent off so early is very disappointing."

Beye's return from an Achilles problem represented a major boost for interim boss Joe Kinnear, but all the 61-year-old's plans were ripped to shreds before he had really got a chance to settle into his seat in the dug-out for the first time since completing his own disciplinary ban.

To their credit, the Magpies staged a spirited fightback, levelling through Shola Ameobi's 44th-minute strike and then edging their way in front when City skipper Richard Dunne put through his own net 19 minutes after the break.

The big-spending visitors eventually hit back trough Stephen Ireland's 86th-minute equaliser to snatch a point, but Beye's disappointment at seeing victory snatched from his side's grasp was compounded by the knowledge he faces watching this weekend's derby from the sidelines.

He said: "I know how big this game is to the supporters. Fingers crossed, it will be overturned.

"But for me, this was such a big game, not only for the fans who want us to win, but also for me personally because I would have been playing against one of my best friends in the game in Djibril Cisse."