Republic of Ireland centre back Clark came off during last Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Fulham at St. James’ Park, and Benitez says the 27-year-old won’t be fit for the game at St. Andrew’s.

The Magpies will also be without full back DeAndre Yedlin, who is also injured, while the game against the side currently sitting 14th in the Sky Bet Championship has also come too soon for Isaac Hayden, Rolando Aarons and Jamie Sterry.

“We have some problems – Yedlin was injured against Brighton and still is not fine,” said Benitez.

“We have Sterry, Hayden and Rolando Aarons (out), and now we have Clark, who has a problem with his medial ligament. He will not be available.

“We have some problems, but still we have some good players waiting and hopefully they can do well in this game.”

Another defender, Paul Dummett, missed out on a place in the Wales squad due to a heel injury.

But Benitez confirmed that the 25-year-old was available for selection for the clash with the Blues.

“Dummett is fine,” said the Spaniard.