After surrendering the lead at Manchester United in their last outing, the Magpies are able to welcome back Paul Dummett from injury while there is also a start for Yoshinori Muto after he impressed at Old Trafford.
That news has pleased supporters, but they are less enthused by the shape of Benitez's bench.
READ: Full team news from St James's Park as Newcastle seek first winSummer signings Fabian Schar and Ki Sung-Yeung are both omitted from the starting line-up - with Ki not even making a bench which has been described as 'dire'.
There is also no place for Salomon Rondon in the squad as he looks to build-up his fitness.
Here's the best of the reaction from Newcastle supporters to Benitez's selection:
@kirkpatrick_111 tweeted: "Having Hayden but no Ki on the bench is a crime."
@b_Annan71 said: "we have the worst subs in the league"
MORE: Benitez reveals what has changed with Kenedy at Newcastle@Zee530 added: "Bench is dire"
@LeevilKenevil posted: "So pleased to see Muto start this match. He looks lively"
@Gordsa69NUFC asked: "We're is Fabian Scharr like?"
@MawstonRon added: "On paper it looks a strong line up . But football isn't played on paper"
READ: The 'risk' Salomon Rondon has taken at Newcastle United@AOlssonNUFC said: "Hayden on the bench instead of Longstaff and Ki is ludicrous the lad is not even league 1 standard"
@Rickardo_NUFC tweeted: "Likely the best we have but Rondon still injured going into November is a worry. Will he ever be back"
@NUFC_UPDATE posted: "Only Lejeune could make that team better but Fernandez is a great replacement! Howay the toon, howay muto!"