Trippier has been handed his first Premier League start since October's goalless draw away at Everton while Joelinton, who served a one-game suspension during United's 4-0 win against Ipswich Town last weekend, returns to the starting line-up in place of Joe Willock, who reverts to the bench.

Martin Dúbravka, targeting a third successive Premier League clean sheet this afternoon, starts in-between the sticks while Dan Burn and Fabian Schär, who netted a brace in last season's 3-1 away win against Villa, are both situated in central defence. Lewis Hall retains his spot at left-back.

Bruno Guimarães, who has recorded four assists in his last five competitive outings, captains the hosts and is situated in the middle of the park alongside Sandro Tonali, who scored on his Magpies debut in a 5-1 win against the Villans last term, and Joelinton.

Jacob Murphy, who has registered three goals and three assists in his last three Premier League matches, and Anthony Gordon will aim to provide attacking support for Alexander Isak, with the Swedish forward aiming to score in a fifth consecutive league fixture.

Harvey Barnes, on target in last season's 5-1 thrashing of Villa at St. James' Park in August 2023, is one of multiple attacking options Howe can deploy from the bench if required, including Will Osula and Miguel Almirón.

Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley are also named on the bench as well as defensive duo Lloyd Kelly and Matt Targett, with the latter joining United from today's visitors in the summer of 2022. Odysseas is the substitute goalkeeper.

Newcastle United: Martin Dúbravka, Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall, Bruno Guimarães (c), Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy, Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak.

Substitutes: Odysseas, Lloyd Kelly, Matt Targett, Sean Longstaff, Lewis Miley, Joe Willock, Miguel Almirón, Harvey Barnes, Will Osula.