It will be the second time he's taken charge of a fixture involving the Magpies this season; he was the man in the middle when United won 2-0 at Barnsley in October.

He was also the referee when Newcastle were beaten 3-1 at home by Bournemouth last season in what turned out to be Steve McClaren's final game as head coach.

He has refereed 15 games in all competitions this term, showing 57 yellow cards and two red.

On Tuesday, he will be assisted by Richard West and Scott Ledger. Tony Harrington will be the fourth official.