The Cheshire-based official took charge of the Magpies' 0-0 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion in December, when he showed four yellow cards - two for each team.

That was his first game involving Newcastle since the final day of the 2015/16 campaign, when United memorably beat Tottenham Hotspur 5-1. That day, he sent off United's Aleksandar Mitrovic.

So far this term, he has taken charge of 33 matches in all competitions - including the Champions League and Europa League - and shown 118 yellow cards and five red.

Beginning his refereeing career in the Northern Premier League in 2002, Taylor is now regarded as one of the country's top officials and took charge of last season's Emirates FA Cup final. In 2015, he refereed both the FA Community Shield and the League Cup final.

On Sunday, he will be assisted by Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn. Kevin Friend will be the fourth official.