It will be the fifth time this season that the West Midlands-based whistler has officiated a Magpies fixture, the last of which came against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park a month ago.

Marriner also took charge of United’s opening-day defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Tyneside – in which he dismissed midfielder Jonjo Shelvey – as well as September’s trip to Brighton & Hove Albion and December’s game at home to Manchester City.

All told, he has shown 72 yellow cards this term and three red. It will be the first time he has presided over a Southampton fixture since March 2017.

He will be assisted by Scott Ledger and Richard West on Saturday. Kevin Friend will be the fourth official.