Newcastle United and Manchester City are both contending with a number of injury concerns ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash at St James Park.
Both sides will head into the game on the back of successful FA Cup third round ties against Championship opposition after City saw off Huddersfield Town at the Etihad Stadium and Newcastle claimed a 3-0 win at North East rivals Sunderland.
The return to Premier League action will be key for both Eddie Howe and Pep Guardiola as they look to keep track with the sides immediately above them in the table. Newcastle's recent run of poor form has seen the Magpies slip to ninth place and they now lie five points adrift of the European places. City also have a five-point deficit to make up on current leaders Liverpool in what looks to be shaping up as a dramatic title race.
With days to go until Saturday evening's clash, NewcastleWorld looks at the early team news and latest injury news on both sides.
5. OUT: Nick Pope
Pope dislocated his shoulder during Newcastle's 1-0 win over Manchester United in December and is set for months on the sidelines. Photo: Stu Forster
6. OUT: Matt Targett
Targett suffered a hamstring injury during November's Carabao Cup game against Manchester United, which required surgery. The 28-year-old isn't expected to return until next month. Photo: Michael Regan
7. OUT: Jacob Murphy
Murphy needed surgery on a shoulder injury in November and won't be back until the end of January. Photo: Ian MacNicol
8. OUT: Harvey Barnes
Barnes was forced off with a foot injury during Newcastle's 8-0 win over Sheffield United in September and is not expected to return until the end of the month. Photo: Michael Regan