The Italian midfielder, now free to feature for United after serving a ten-month ban from competitive football, is set for his first outing for the Magpies since October 2023 and is one of six changes from the Newcastle side which claimed a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday.

Kieran Trippier, who captains the visitors this evening, replaces Tino Livramento while Lewis Hall will feature at left-back in place of Lloyd Kelly, with Emil Krafth and Dan Burn retaining their places at the heart of the Magpies' defence.

Joe Willock will make his first competitive start since April, likely partnering Tonali and Joelinton in the middle of the park, while Harvey Barnes and Miguel Almirón have been handed starts in place of Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy respectively.

Alexander Isak, who has scored three goals in his last two outings against Nottingham Forest, leads the line.

Howe has a number of options to deploy from the bench if required, including the likes of Bruno Guimarães, who scored a brace in United's last trip to the City Ground back in February, as well as Gordon, Murphy and Sean Longstaff, who made his competitive first-team debut for his boyhood club against tonight's opponents in a Carabao Cup second round tie six years ago.

Will Osula, targeting a competitive debut for the Magpies this evening, is also named on the bench as well as defensive trio Livramento, Kelly and Matt Targett.

John Ruddy is the substitute goalkeeper.

Newcastle United: Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier (c), Emil Krafth, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, Joe Willock, Miguel Almirón, Harvey Barnes, Alexander Isak.

Substitutes: John Ruddy, Tino Livramento, Lloyd Kelly, Matt Targett, Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimarães, Jacob Murphy, Anthony Gordon, Will Osula.