The ten-goal forward has been unwell in recent days, so William Osula will lead the line against the La Liga leaders.

However, Dan Burn and Joelinton return to the starting XI, while Jacob Ramsey is also back after serving a one-match suspension against Manchester City in the FA Cup at the weekend.

Sven Botman, Joe Willock and Nick Woltemade drop down the the bench. Tino Livramento is again on the bench after making his return from injury towards the end of the City cup tie.

Harvey Barnes has five goals in this season's competition and he starts on one wing with Anthony Elanga on the other.

Kieran Trippier captains the side. There are three goalkeepers - Nick Pope, John Ruddy and Aidan Harris - in the squad, while Gordon will hope to come on and make an impact later in the match.

Newcastle United: Aaron Ramsdale, Kieran Trippier (c), Lewis Hall, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes, Malick Thiaw, William Osula, Anthony Elanga, Dan Burn, Jacob Ramsey

Substitutes: Nick Pope, John Ruddy, Aidan Harris, Sven Botman, Yoane Wissa, Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento, Jacob Murphy, Nick Woltemade, Joe Willock, Alex Murphy, Sean Neave