The Magpies head into the game off the back of a harrowing 1-0 FA Cup third round exit to Cambridge United, and will be expected to produce a suitable response when they take on the Hornets.
As things stand, just two points separate the sides in a tightly-packed lower end of the table, and the game is shaping up to be a real ‘six-pointer’ in the battle for survival.
The last time the two sides faced each other, back in September, the two sides played out a 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road, with Ismaila Sarr levelling up for the hosts after Sean Longstaff’s first half goal.
Speaking ahead of the eagerly anticipated game, Magpies legend Alan Shearer discussed the relegation struggle with Optus Sport, and said: “Norwich, Watford and I always say Burnley will have enough but I’ve watched Burnley a few times in December and been really surprised by how poor they’ve been defensively.
“I know they don’t concede as many as the other teams in the relegation battle do but going forward they haven’t scored as much either.
“They’ve got [Maxwel] Cornet who can produce spectacular goals so I’m going to say Burnley (to go down) and let’s hope that Newcastle can get out of it.”
Take a look at today’s biggest stories from the Premier League, as the top tier sides continue to gear up for the weekend action:
The last time the two sides faced each other, back in September, the two sides played out a 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road, with Ismaila Sarr levelling up for the hosts after Sean Longstaff’s first half goal.
5. Wood close to Toon move
Burnley striker Chris Wood is on the verge of sealing a £20m move to Newcastle United, after the Magpies met his release clause. He’s set to become Newcastle’s second signing of the window, following the arrival of Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid. (The Athletic) (Photo by Molly Darlington - Getty)
6. Hammers could be priced out of Kelly deal
West Ham United’s hopes of signing Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly have been dealt a blow, with reports suggesting the Cherries will look to “price out” any potential suitors. He’s also said to be on Everton’s radar. (Football League World) (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)
7. Senesi in demand
Newcastle United and Brighton are plotting moves to sign Feyenoord defender Marcos Senesi. (Football Insider) (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
8. Bielsa wants midfielders
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa wants to sign two midfielders this month, but club chiefs have told the Argentine he can only make loan signings in January due to financial fair play restrictions. (Football Insider) (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)