Newcastle stars Chris Houston and Timana Tahu have been axed by coach Wayne Bennett for Sunday’s NRL clash with Canterbury at Hunter Stadium.

The duo paid the price for the Knights’ 44-14 thumping by Canberra last weekend.

Dual international Tahu was carved up by Canberra’s Blake Ferguson who scored three tries in the romp over the Knights.

Former Sydney Roosters centre Joseph Leilua will make his Knights’ return against the Bulldogs in Tahu’s place while Newcastle also welcome back five-eighth Jarrod Mullen from injury.

Mullen missed the Raiders’ clash with a knee injury and pushes captain Kurt Gidley back to hooker.

Houston is replaced by David Fa’alogo at lock, with Neville Costigan also recalled on the bench.

Tahu and Houston will play NSW Cup this weekend.