Warwickshire whistler Attwell will be refereeing his fourth game of the campaign at St. James’ Park this weekend, having also overseen two Championship matches – Fulham’s 1-0 defeat at home to Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United’s 1-0 win at Bolton – as well as the goalless draw between Huddersfield Town and Southampton in the top flight.

During those games, he has dished out a total of seven yellow cards, but is yet to issue a red card this term.

Attwell, 34, took charge of just one Magpies game last season – the 2-1 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday in April. In 27 matches during the course of 2016/17, he showed 90 yellow cards and eight reds.

He will be assisted by Stephen Child and Matt Wilkes, while Lee Mason will be the fourth official.