Newcastle United starting XI v Al-Hilal confirmed: Debut and two noticeable absences

Loris Karius makes his Newcastle United debut against Al-Hilal - with Karl Darlow and Matt Targett absent from the squad.

The former Liverpool goalkeeper gets his first run out since signing a short-term deal with the Magpies in September and plays behind a back four of Javier Manquillo, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman and Jamal Lewis.

Lewis’ appearance is also an interesting one, with the left-back making just two substitute appearances so far this season.

Jonjo Shelvey, Joe Willock and Joelinton form a three-man midfielder. Chris Wood leads the line with Allan Saint-Maximin and Jacob Murphy either.

There’s no Darlow and Targett on the bench, although they are present in Riyadh. Head coach Eddie Howe is expected to make a number of substitutes through the evening to get as many minutes into his players’ legs as possible.

Alexander Isak, Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett and Emil Krafth were ruled out prior to the game.

“The break for the World Cup gives us the opportunity for a mini pre-season ahead of a crucial part of the season,” Howe said.

“Our trip to Jeddah in January was pivotal for us last season. It galvanised the group, and the hard work the players put in was rewarded in performances and results on our return.

“We will have access to world class facilities as refurbishments at our own training ground continue, and we look forward to facing Al-Hilal and playing in front of our growing numbers of supporters in the region.”

Newcastle United XI: Loris Karius, Javier Manquillo, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Jamal Lewis, Jonjo Shelvey, Joe Willock, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy, Allan Saint-Maximin, Chris Wood.

Subs: Mark Gillespie, Ryan Fraser, Miguel Almiron, Elliot Anderson, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff, Joe White, Dylan Stephenson, Jay Turner-Cooke, Alex Murphy, Lewis Miley.