Newcastle United’s Premier League campaign gets underway on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off) when they host Southampton at St James’ Park. The Magpies have won both of their previous opening weekend games and will look to make it a hat-trick when the Saints travel to the north east.
Russell Martin’s side defeated Leeds United at Wembley in the Championship play-off final back in May to secure promotion to the top-flight after just one season in the second tier. Saturday will also mark the first time Howe has come up against Martin as a manager.
Heading into Saturday’s game, Howe has a number of selection dilemmas with a handful of players sidelined through injury. None of Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Lewis Miley, Callum Wilson or Sandro Tonali will be able to feature whilst there are serious doubts over Matt Targett.
Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier have also featured just once during pre-season after their commitments with England during the summer. However, there could be competitive debuts for Lloyd Kelly and Will Osula.
Here, we take a look at the Newcastle United Howe could name for the visit of Southampton on Saturday. Do you agree with our picks? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there.

5. Lewis Hall - 6
Got forward well but lacked the final ball. Made an important goalline clearance in the second half. Caught out with a couple of clumsy touches when attempting to play it out. Booked. | Getty Images

6. Sean Longstaff - 7
Got the biggest cheer of the afternoon before Joelinton's goal with a challenge on Brereton-Diaz. Got stuck in, tackled well and made some positive runs forward. | AFP via Getty Images

7. Bruno Guimaraes - 7
Captained the side to start the new season. Was caught in possession early on but did the dirty work really well when Newcastle were under the cosh. Very smart to win a free-kick late on to relieve the pressure having conceded one moments earlier with a clumsy foul. | Getty Images

8. Joelinton - 8
Tracked back well to stop a promising Southampton attack early on. Broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-taken finish. The best player on the park in a game often lacking in quality. A powerhouse performance. | Getty Images