The 37-year-old has been appointed for the game at the Etihad Stadium – the Magpies’ second match against City in the space of a month – and it will be the second time Tierney has taken charge of a Newcastle fixture this term.

The first game in November, when United were beaten 1-0 by AFC Bournemouth at St. James’ Park. On that occasion the Wigan-born official dished out four yellow cards, including two to the hosts’ Florian Lejeune and Jonjo Shelvey, before Steve Cook’s last-gasp winner for the Cherries.

Tierney, a top-flight referee since 2014, has overseen matches in the Premier League, Championship, Leagues One and Two as well as the FA Cup this season. In his 17 games so far this campaign, he has shown 44 yellow cards but is yet to brandish a red. He has also awarded four penalties – but none in the Premier League as yet.

He will be assisted by Simon Bennett and Marc Perry on Saturday, while Craig Pawson will be the fourth official.