United welcome the Clarets to St. James’ Park for a crucial match, which sees two of the division's bottom three sides fight it out for what could be a vital victory.

And Tierney – who will turn 41 on Christmas Day – has been appointed for the fixture, which comes just days after Eddie Howe’s side drew 1-1 with Norwich City in midweek.

He has been one of the country’s more prominent officials since 2014, when he took charge of his first Premier League match – though he was an assistant in the Magpies’ home clash with Hull City in the 2008/09 campaign.

In recent years, Tierney status has increased, having been promoted to FIFA’s list of referees at the start of 2018.

He oversaw the Championship play-off final between Aston Villa and Fulham in May 2019, and earlier this year Tierney took charge of his first major cup final - Manchester City’s 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur to lift the Carabao Cup at Wembley.

Most of his appointments this season have come in the Premier League, with other run-outs coming in the Community Shield, Europa League and World Cup qualifiers. Tierney took charge of United's 2-2 draw with Southampton in August as well as Chelsea's win on Tyneside at the end of October, and has shown 41 yellows and no reds so far this term.

Constantine Hatzidakis and Peter Kirkup will assist him on Saturday, with Michael Salisbury named as the fourth official.

Lee Mason will take the role of VAR, supported by Simon Beck.