This will be the first time this term the Wiltshire-born official has taken charge of an English top-flight fixture involving the Magpies as Steve Bruce's side go in search of a third consecutive league victory.

Hooper was the man in the middle for three of United's Premier League clashes last term, including a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in December 2019. Miguel Almirón, who scored his first goal for the club that afternoon, was booked along with Fabian Schär.

Promoted to the Select Group of Referees in 2018, Hooper was also in charge of United's 2-2 draw at Everton in January and handed out a yellow card to Ciaran Clark at Goodison Park before being tasked with keeping order in the goalless draw at Brighton & Hove Albion in July, booking Matt Ritchie and loanee Danny Rose.

In the nine games the 38-year-old referee has officiated this term, across the Premier League, Championship and the Carabao Cup, he has shown a total of 21 yellow cards but is yet to show a red card.

On Wednesday evening, Hooper will be assisted by Edward Smart and Simon Beck, while Tony Harrington will be the fourth official.

Kevin Friend will be the VAR and will be aided by Matthew Wilkes.