Newcastle United have battled on valiantly in the wake of an ongoing injury crisis that has robbed Eddie Howe of over £200m worth of players for the majority of the season.
Despite the absence of key figures such as Sven Botman, Callum Wilson and Sandro Tonali, the Magpies have forced themselves into the battle for a top four place and are still in with a shout of progressing into the knockout rounds of the Champions League and semi-final of the Carabao Cup. Then there is the FA Cup third round tie against local rivals Sunderland, as Howe and his players prepare to travel to the Stadium of Light for the first FA Cup tie with the Black Cats since a quarter-final clash in 1956.
Howe will hope his injury crisis has subsided by the time his squad makes the short trip to Wearside - but there will also be a focus on adding new faces to his ranks as the January transfer window opens just days earlier. Speculation over which new signings could arrive at St James Park will increase over the coming weeks - but how could United look when the transfer window closes at the end of January?
5. LB: Tino Livramento
Dan Burn will return, Matt Targett will return and Lewis Hall remains in contention - but how could anyone consider dropping Livramento as he continues to shine on the left-hand side of the back four? | AFP via Getty Images
6. CM: Kalvin Phillips
It would be no slight on Lewis Miley after his impressive introduction into life at a senior level but Newcastle are targeting a midfield addition in January. Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock could return soon but the addition of Phillips would further enhance Howe's options in the middle of the park. | Getty Images
7. CM: Joelinton
He's Brazilian - and he continues to thrive in the middle of Howe's side with all-action performances and a work-rate that surpasses all expectations. | AFP via Getty Images
8. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Rapidly returning to his very best in recent weeks, Guimaraes is integral to United's plans moving forwards. | AFP via Getty Images