United face Villa, under the temporary stewardship of Aaron Danks, at St. James' Park just under a week on from their impressive 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur, with the Magpies head coach opting to keep faith with the same 11 that started that game in North London.

Talismanic winger Allan Saint-Maximin has been named on the bench, though, after recovering from a hamstring problem.

Nick Pope continues in goal behind a back four of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Sven Botman and Dan Burn, with Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimarães and Joe Willock forming a midfield trio.

And further forward, Joelinton and Miguel Almirón will provide support from the flanks for frontman Callum Wilson.

Saint-Maximin replaces Jamal Lewis among the substitutes in the only change to Howe's bench from last weekend, with Javier Manquillo, Jamaal Lascelles and Matt Targett the defensive reinforcements.

Jonjo Shelvey, Jacob Murphy and Ryan Fraser are also included, as is forward Chris Wood and goalkeeper Loris Karius.

Newcastle United: Nick Pope; Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Sven Botman, Dan Burn; Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimarães, Joe Willock; Miguel Almirón, Callum Wilson, Joelinton.

Substitutes: Loris Karius, Javier Manquillo, Jamaal Lascelles, Matt Targett, Jonjo Shelvey, Jacob Murphy, Ryan Fraser, Allan Saint-Maximin, Chris Wood.