After a nine-game unbeaten run was ended by Kai Havertz, Newcastle were then defeated late-on against ten man Everton.
The Magpies will want to bounce back from this double disappointment when they face Tottenham Hotspur and a win could put Newcastle 12 points above the relegation zone.
However, the international break has thrown up one or two selection dilemmas for Newcastle’s head coach. Both Fabian Schar and Martin Dubravka withdrew from international duty and whilst Bruno Guimaraes impressed with Brazil - how much of an impact has the long travel to South America and back had on him?
Will Howe opt to rest some of his international stars? Will key men like Jonjo Shelvey and Allan Saint-Maximin be fit enough to face Spurs?
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1. GK: Martin Dubravka
Hopefully Dubravka’s injury problems whilst on international duty won’t keep him out of action this weekend as he has been a very important part of Newcastle’s defence. Photo: Ian MacNicol
2. RB: Javi Manquillo
With Emil Krafth away on international duty, Manquillo was a part of the group that went to Dubai and that period of training could mean the Spaniard is picked to face Spurs. Photo: Laurence Griffiths
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Newcastle’s captain has started just one of their last nine games, however, with Fabian Schar potentially not being at 100%, Lascelles may be trusted to lead the side once again. Photo: Alex Livesey
4. CB: Dan Burn
Burn was voted Newcastle’s Player of the Month for March and will undoubtedly feature on Sunday if fully fit. The defence is a stronger unit for his presence in it. Photo: Stu Forster