Under pressure Steve Bruce is in desperate need of a result with the Magpies currently 10 games without a win.
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Aston Villa also marked a run of eight matches without scoring as supporters call for the 60-year-old to resign.
Meanwhile, Marcelo Bielsa’s side return to the field following a nine-day absence after a postponed fixture against Southampton and a free FA Cup weekend.
It’s a huge game for both teams in the context of the bottom end of the top-flight table.
Ahead of tonight’s game, we’ve decided to create a ‘combined XI’ – as decided by popular statistics site WhoScored.com, who have given an average rating to each player thus far.
Indeed, that includes a couple of controversial choices as far Newcastle are concerned.
So, which of Bruce’s players feature? Scroll and click through our gallery to see how the starting XI shapes up:
1. Karl Darlow - 6.93
The 30-year-old has been an ever-present for the Magpies in the Premier League this season as Martin Dubravka battled back from injury. WhoScored rating: 6.93. Photo: Alex Pantling
2. Luke Ayling - 6.95
Spent most of the season in central defence but is a right-back by trade. With Diego Llorente back fit, Ayling could soon be switched back to his favoured position. WhoScored rating: 6.95. Photo: Michael Regan
3. Liam Cooper - 7.06
The Leeds captain comfortably earns his spot. His WhoScored rating is bettered only by Patrick Bamford. WhoScored rating: 7.06. Photo: Catherine Ivill
4. Ciaran Clark - 6.78
Ranked as Newcastle’s most consistent defender this season. Llorente’s rating was higher but was hard to make a case given he's played just 81 minutes of football so far since his summer switch from Real Sociedad. WhoScored rating: 6.78. Photo: ALEX PANTLING