Newcastle United's St James' Park
Newcastle United host Aston Villa at St James' Park
Newcastle United's return to Premier League form has come at the ideal time for Eddie Howe - but will face a tough test when Aston Villa come to St James' Park today.
The Boxing Day fixtures are always eagerly anticipated, and today is no different, with two sides with big ambitions going head to head. Villa are finding it tricky to manage life in the Champions League with domestic demands, much as Newcastle did last season, but are still sixth in the table, just two points ahead of Eddie Howe's Magpies.
With away games at Manchester United and Tottenham to come, this is a big opportunity for Newcastle to show their credentials against their direct rivals after impressive displays against Leicester and Ipswich Town. Here's all you need to know ahead of the big game.
When is Newcastle United vs Aston Villa?
The game gets under way at 3pm today, Thursday, December 26, at St James' Park. It is one of eight Premier League games today, with two more tomorrow.
Is Newcastle United vs Aston Villa on TV?
Yes, all the Boxing Day Premier League fixtures are being broadcast live by Amazon Prime Video, as well as Friday's games. They are broadcasting 10 matches on December 26-27 and each match can be streamed free with an Amazon Prime subscription or by signing up for an Amazon Prime 30-day free trial.
How else can I follow Newcastle United vs Aston Villa?
Our team will bring you live coverage from St James' Park in our matchday blog right here on ChronicleLive, with all the build up, team news, in-game analysis, rartings and reaction.
Early Newcastle United team news
Eddie Howe is hoping to have Joelinton available to him again today after the Brazilian sat out the 4-0 win at Ipswich Town through suspension. The United No 7 took a heavy knock against Brentford in the Carabao Cup win, but should be fit to return. Joe Willock is also expected to fight to keep his place after a minor injury at Portman Road.
Martin Dubravka will continue in goal with Nick Pope still ruled out, but there is a chance Sven Botman could take his place on the bench after coming through Under-21 games unscathed.
Who is the Newcastle United vs Aston Villa referee?
Anthony Taylor will officiate today's game in what will be his second Newcastle match of the season following the 3-1 win at Nottingham Forest. It will be his 20th game of the season, with some high profile Premier League and Champions League encounters under his belt this term. He was also in charge of three games in last summer's European Championships.
Boxing Day Premier League fixtures
All 3pm unless stated
Manchester City vs Everton (12.30pm)
Newcastle vs Aston Villa
Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham
AFC Bournemouth vs Crystal Palace
Chelsea vs Fulham
Southampton vs West Ham
Wolves vs Manchester United (5.30pm)
Liverpool vs Leicester City (8pm)
Friday, December 27
Brighton vs Brentford (5.30pm)
Arsenal vs Ipswich Town (8.15pm)