Newcastle host Liverpool, who currently sit top of the Premier League table, nine points clear of second game Arsenal. Since succeeding Jurgen Klopp in the summer, new boss Arne Slot has tasted just one defeat in all competitions, winning 18 of his 20 matches so far.
Meanwhile, Howe’s side have struggled for consistency this season, leaving them 11th in the table. They also haven’t beaten the Reds since December 2015.
Alexander Isak has been passed fit, despite being forced off with a hip injury in the 22nd minute at Crystal Palace. The Swede declared himself fit in an interview on Monday but Howe’s update in his pre-match press conference cast some doubt.
Howe said: “He took a knock to his hip and wasn’t able to carry on. We haven’t seen him in training yet, but I don’t think it’s a long-term injury. We’ll wait and see. It’ll be time, pain management and how the injury settles down.”
Isak will line-up in attack alongside Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy, who replaces Joe Willock in the side. That will see Joelinton move back into midfield, accompanying Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
The only change from the matchday squad at Palace is Matt Targett for Kieran Trippier. The right-back recently returned from seven weeks out with a hamstring issue to take his place on the bench last week against West Ham United and Palace.
Here’s Newcastle United starting XI and subs in full:
17. SUB: Miguel Almiron
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18. SUB: Joe Willock
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19. SUB: Sean Longstaff
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20. SUB: Lloyd Kelly
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