The South Yorkshire official has been confirmed as the referee for the game at St. James’ Park (4.30pm kick-off), and it will the second time he’s been appointed for a Newcastle fixture this season, having overseen the Magpies’ 1-0 defeat at Huddersfield Town in August.

So far this term, Pawson has taken charge of five games, all in the Premier League. He has shown 25 yellow cards and two reds, both coming in Burnley’s 3-2 win at Chelsea on the opening day.

Last season, the 38-year-old refereed 38 matches, including matches in the Premier League, Championship, EFL Cup and FA Cup as well as the Champions League and Europa League ties.

In total, he dished out 147 yellow cards – five of them coming in Newcastle’s 1-0 win away at Wolves in February – and five reds during 2016/17.

He will be assisted on Sunday by Scott Ledger and Constantine Hatzidakis, while Bobby Madley will be the fourth official.