With the international break coming to an end, all focus turns towards the Magpies and their battle to beat the drop.
Plenty has been said in the aftermath of United’s 3-0 defeat at Brighton and Hove Albion, not least the future of head coach Steve Bruce.
However, owner Mike Ashley is sticking by his man, much to the displeasure of supporters.
The challenge now for Bruce and his players is to ensure the club avoids a third relegation under Ashley.
Indeed, fate is still in their own hands with a two-point advantage and a game in-hand over 18th placed Fulham.
Ahead of the defining part of the season, we take a look at which players Bruce has called upon the most this campaign via minutes played.
The figures come from scouting experts WyScout as we rank every player from lowest to highest – which includes some surprising results:
5. 22nd - Andy Carroll - 381 minutes
The Geordie striker has started just twice since September (four in total this season). His minutes on the pitch as a substitute is a mere 106 minutes. Photo: Pool
6. 21st - Paul Dummett - 448 minutes
Dummett's campaign has been blighted by injuries, though he has started the previous three games as he continues to build up ahead of steam. Photo: JOHN WALTON
7. 20th - Matt Ritchie - 546 minutes
Ritchie has just nine Premier League appearances to his name this season - five of which were starts. His only outing of 2021 so far came in THAT home draw with Wolves. Photo: Julian Finney
8. 19th - Joe Willock - 591 minutes
Signed on loan from Arsenal on January transfer deadline day, the 21-year-old has started every (7) match since. Photo: Stu Forster