A season that promises plenty and will hopefully deliver even more will get underway when Newcastle United host Nottingham Forest at St James Park on the first Saturday of August.
For the first time since that memorable night against Arsenal, where St James sparkled with expectation and energy, Eddie Howe’s men will walk out in front of the Gallowgate faithful for a Premier League fixture.
There will be a number of new faces in the Magpies squad following the summer additions of Burnley and England goalkeeper Nick Pope and Lille centre-back Sven Botman.
And Matt Targett is likely to make his first appearance as a permanent Newcastle United player after he impressed during his loan spell from Aston Villa last season.
United’s transfer activity is far from over and at least two more signings are expected by the time the summer transfer window closes in September.
But who could line up in black and white when newly promoted Forest visit Tyneside on the opening day of the season?
5. CB: Sven Botman
The Dutch star finally arrived on Tyneside last summer and will be a big part of United’s future. Photo: JEAN-CHRISTOPHE VERHAEGEN
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian international has been an outstanding addition to the Magpies squad and they will hope to bring even more out of him next season. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
7. CM: Sean Longstaff
The Magpies academy product has made an impressive start to pre-season and could force his way into Eddie Howe’s starting lineup if that carries on. | Jack McGraghan Photo: Jack McGraghan
8. CM: Joelinton
The unlikely conversion into an all-action midfield will surely continue as Joelinton provides energy and intensity to the Magpies midfield. Photo: Stu Forster