Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton admits he won't be selecting a full-strength team for tonight's Carling Cup tie at Chelsea.

In terms of Newcastle's priorities this season, the Carling Cup is not high on the list.

That is not a reflection of any disrespect for the competition, simply an acknowledgement that top-flight survival and the financial stability it would bring is the overwhelming objective.

As a result, Hughton will use the depth of his squad with one eye on Sunday's home clash with Stoke.

He said: "I don't think it would be unfair to say it is not the biggest of our priorities, but we very much have respect for this competition and even more so, a respect for Chelsea Football Club, who have started the season so well.

"We will make sure we put out a side that's capable of coping very well with them.

"You are always concerned up against a top-quality Chelsea side who are scoring goals for fun, and certainly with the home record they have got.

"But you have also got to have faith in the squad you have and the abilities we have.

"We will make sure we go there with a side which is capable of getting something."