United could stretch the gap to the bottom three with a win – and with pressure building this week due to off-field and training ground tensions, the Magpies could do with some positive on-field news.
But who starts in place of Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron? Here’s our writer Liam Kennedy’s NUFC XI.
5. Paul Dummett
The defender has been seriously troubled by injury, but his defensive qualities are in high-demand in the Magpies' back four. A much more solid option that Jamal Lewis. Photo: Stu Forster
6. Jeff Hendrick
Yes, I know. He has been awful this season, mostly. But Newcastle need a midfield anchor and he's the best fit with Hayden plugging a gap further back. Photo: Stu Forster
7. Joe Willock
As you were with the Arsenal loan man. People are talking about playing in the Miguel Almiron role, but I'd keep him breaking from deeper. Photo: Pool
8. Sean Longstaff
Replaces Jonjo Shelvey every day of the week, twice on Sundays. Will not go hiding. Photo: Pool