The Magpies return to action following the international break with an Easter Sunday outing against Spurs, and with the match officials having been confirmed on Tuesday, both sides know that Pawson will be the man tasked with keeping order at St. James' Park.

It will be Pawson's fourth trip to Tyneside this term, with the 42-year-old having taken charge of home games against Manchester United and Chelsea, which both ended in defeat, and February's 3-2 win over Southampton.

The Sheffield-born whistler will be fresh from having overseen some international action in the last fortnight, with his most recent outing coming in Israel as the hosts were beaten 2-0 by Denmark in a World Cup qualifier last week.

He has had a busy season so far, with appointments in the Premier League, Championship and FA Cup, as well as further afield in the Europa League, Nations League and the aforementioned World Cup qualifier in Tel Aviv.

In 25 games in 2020/21, Pawson has issued 91 yellow cards and five reds - and is yet to keep his cards pocketed so far in the current campaign.

Ian Hussin and Eddie Smart will assist him on Sunday, with Lee Mason acting as fourth official.

Darren England has been confirmed as VAR, and will be assisted by Andy Halliday.