The Magpies face the Catalan giants for the third time this term in the first leg of their last 16 tie, having exited the FA Cup at the hands of Manchester City on Saturday.

That leaves European football's top competition as United's last remaining cup focus of the campaign, and head coach Howe believes now is a the time for his charges to stand up and be counted as they bid to continue on their continental adventure.

Full back Livramento, meanwhile, made his long-awaited return from injury as a second half substitute in the defeat to City, but Howe said it was too early determine whether or not the England international would be able to line up against Hansi Flick's men.

Here are some of the main talking points from Howe's meeting with the media on Monday evening:

On the prospect of one of the biggest games in the club's recent history...

"For me, it is, and that's very much the mentality it needs. Rising to the occasion and embracing the size of the game - I think these are things that have helped us this season, and we're looking for the same again."

On being second favourites with many ahead of the tie, and Flick's Barcelona...

"I think the underdog role, to a degree, in my time here has helped us at times. When we've been in that position where we feel the odds are stacked against us.

"We're going to need to use every psychological tool we can to help us in this game, because it's undeniable that we're playing a very, very good team - (and) an outstandingly well-coached team I have to say as well, from having watched them thoroughly in preparing for both games, as we have done. They're a top team."

On Livramento's fitness...

"He probably hasn't done enough training for me to feel 100 per cent confident that he's in that best physical moment, especially when it's such a big game, to start.

"But he's in our squad, and anyone who's in that position is in contention to play. It's a delicate balance with Tino at the moment.

"He trained again this morning and he trained again on Friday and is in good spirits. He's in a good place. He's a massive player for us and it's great to have him back. Obviously, I've got to try and get the team selection right."

On what is needed on Tuesday, and at the Spotify Camp Nou next week...

"I think we've had some great recent experiences to help us with the two-legged game. I think all our Champions League have been a great dress rehearsal for this moment, and that's the way we need to look at it. Now is the moment we need to be at our very best."