Their win over Wolves last weekend was a hard-earned but deserved victory at St James’ Park.
Alexander Isak’s opener was cancelled out by Hwang Hee-chan’s equaliser, but Miguel Almiron’s late strike earned the hosts all three points and reignited their hopes of finishing in a Champions League spot this season.
Steve Cooper’s Nottingham Forest are next up for the Magpies as they attempt to defeat a Forest side that have lost just three times in-front of their own supporters this season.
But what team will Howe pick for the game? Will he opt to rest some of Sunday’s starters?
Here, we take a look at the starting XI Howe could name for Newcastle United’s trip to the City Ground.
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9. Joe Willock
Willock was simply superb against Wolves at the weekend and deservedly grabbed an assist. He will be aiming to replicate this display on Friday night. Photo: George Wood
10. Miguel Almiron
Jacob Murphy played very well against Wolves on Sunday and will feel hard done by if he starts on the substitutes bench on Friday night. However, Almiron’s late winner means he may be asked to return to the starting side. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
11. Alexander Isak
Although Howe revealed Isak isn’t fit enough to play a full game, the Sweden international started at St James’ Park and put in a brilliant performance that set the Magpies on their way to three points. Photo: Naomi Baker
12. Allan Saint-Maximin
Newcastle United’s left side of Willock, Burn and Saint-Maximin was a real weapon for them on Sunday and could be something they exploit against Nottingham Forest. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY