Bruno Guimaraes’ suspension and injury worries surrounding Joe Willock and Callum Wilson mean Howe has a couple of dilemmas on his hands when Jurgen Klopp’s side come to town.
Newcastle haven’t tasted defeat in the league since their defeat at Anfield back in August, but five draws in their last six league outings has slightly dampened spirits around St James’s Park.
Their game with Liverpool could become a season-defining one and comes just eight days before their Carabao Cup final clash with Manchester United - making it a huge few weeks ahead of Howe’s side.
Here, we take a look at the starting XI that the Newcastle United head coach could select for the visit of Liverpool on Saturday evening.
Do you agree with our predicted line-up? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there:
. Eddie Howe
Is this the Newcastle United starting XI that will face Liverpool on Saturday? (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) Photo: Dan Istitene
. GK: Nick Pope
Pope has conceded in his last two appearances, but he still has the league’s best defence in-front of him. He hasn’t conceded more than once in a game since the clash at Anfield back in August. Photo: Gareth Copley
. RB: Kieran Trippier
The Trent Alexander-Arnold/Kieran Trippier debate will continue when the pair square-off against each other this weekend. Photo: Dan Istitene
9. CM: Joelinton
The Brazilian’s physicality will be needed this weekend and could be a real weapon for Newcastle to exploit. Liverpool’s midfield have struggled this year and Joelinton could use this to dominate the middle of the park. Photo: Dan Istitene
10. RW: Miguel Almiron
Almiron ended his mini-goal drought last weekend and will be hoping to add to his ten strikes this weekend. His energy and running with the ball will be a major threat to the Liverpool defence. Photo: GLYN KIRK
11. ST: Alexander Isak
Isak opened his Newcastke account just 38 minutes into his debut back at Anfield in August - and was cruelly denied a second by a tight offside call. He gave the Reds defence an almighty headache in that game and will be aiming to repeat the feat this time around. Photo: Dan Istitene
12. LW: Allan Saint-Maximin
The Frenchman will be eyeing a starting spot at Wembley and will want to impress this weekend. We all remember his performance against Manchester City at the beginning of the season - Liverpool’s defensive structure could allow for a similar performance on Saturday. Photo: Dan Istitene