United are set to face the only side to have beaten them so far this season, as they seek a result that eluded them during their 2-1 defeat at Anfield back in August.

The Magpies are unbeaten in the league since then, while Jurgen Klopp's men - who have endured a tricky campaign for the most part - arrive on Tyneside having impressed during their 2-0 Merseyside derby win over Everton earlier this week.

Ahead of the game, the hosts may have to make a late check on the fitness of midfielder Willock, though, while frontman Wilson is also hoping to be involved at St. James' Park.

Howe spoke to the media at the Magpies' Benton training centre on Friday morning. Here are some of the key talking points:

On his side's injury concerns...

"Joe (Willock), we haven't seen yet. I think he'll be doubtful for the game tomorrow. I don't think it's a big injury at all - it's a very minor complaint with his hamstring, so we hope to get him back very quickly.

"(Miguel Almirón and Allan Saint-Maximin) have been back training, and they're fine.

"Callum (Wilson)'s done really well. As we said at the time, it was a very minor complaint for him. He hasn't trained yet - we hope he trains today, and then he's in contention.

"I don't think there are any fresh injuries. Matt Targett's made a very welcome return to training, the first steps for him. I won't push him this weekend at this moment in time, but it's a good sign for him that he's nearing coming back."

On midfielder Joelinton, who is one booking away from a Premier League suspension...

"I think if you look at the booking last week, it's mistimed by such a small margin.

"He's such a good transitional player. He puts out a lot of fires for us defensively, his positioning and his tactical understanding is excellent, and he's physical. He's going into a lot of duels - I think his stats on duels and tackles and aerial wins this season have been incredible.

"With that, you're going to get a few wrong, and they've ended up being bookings for him. We're desperate not to lose him, but we also don't want him to change the way he plays."

On Newcastle's home form, and having the only remaining unbeaten home record in the top flight...

"It's been pivotal - I think your home form always is. We've enjoyed playing at home. I think lately, we've been a bit frustrated - we've wanted more goals, we've wanted more clear cut chances, but I think teams have defended well against us. They've defended with a clear plan, and it's up to us to find solutions to those problems. We have the capability, I think, to do that.

"I think Liverpool will provide a different test than maybe we've had in recent weeks. They're still a top team with an outstanding manager, so we know the test is a huge one this weekend."

On whether his team will use their last-gasp loss to Liverpool in August as motivation this weekend...

"I wouldn't say (we) owe Liverpool one. We owe ourselves to do our best in this game and do everything in our power to try and win the match.

"I'm reluctant to use Liverpool as motivation for us. We shouldn't need that. It should come from ourselves, our league position, and our needs and wants to have a successful season."

On Wor Flags' planned tribute to Sir Bobby Robson on Saturday on what would have been his 90th birthday...

"It's a really fitting tribute to an incredible man. I consider myself unfortunate not to have met him and spent time with him, but I've heard a lot of stories about him from people here at the training ground, peiple connected to the club. I'm looking forward to seeing the tribute and embracing that, and paying tribute to a remarkable person."