The Warwickshire whistler has yet to take charge of a match involving the Magpies this season but officiated three last term - all of which Newcastle won.

Attwell was the man in the middle for the opening day triumph at West Ham, a 2-1 home success against Everton last November and January's victory against the same opponents at Goodison Park.

The 39-year-old - who was the youngest person to referee in the Premier League when he made his top flight debut at the age of 25 in 2008 - was promoted to the Select Group of Referees in 2016 and so far this term he's refereed 11 games, including one in the Champions League and two in the Europa Conference League, showing 39 yellow cards. He has yet to send a player off this season.

Last term, he showed four red cards and 107 yellow in 28 matches in all competitions.

On Saturday, Attwell will be assisted by Dan Cook and Harry Lennard, while Graham Scott is on fourth official duty. Darren England is the Video Assistant Referee, with Mark Scholes assisting at Stockley Park.