The Magpies host Spurs in what is their fourth game in 12 days, with West Ham United, Athletic Bilbao and Brentford still to come before the November international break.
United have won back-to-back matches, beating Benfica in the Champions League and Fulham in the Premier League, and now return to the competition in which they won in March after beating Liverpool 2-1 in the final at Wembley.
Howe’s side defence began with a 4-1 victory over League One outfit Bradford City at St James’ Park last month.
“Yes, I think it's an important decision that I've got coming up for this game because, of course, we want to progress,” Howe said when asked about rotation his team against Spurs. “Competition means a lot to us, current holders, etc, o, we don't want to give that up easily.
“But I have to trust the squad as well, and we've got some very good players that need football and need an opportunity to show their talents and what they can bring the squad. So, I think there'll be an element of that, but, as I said, I've got to try and get the balance right.”
Howe could hand Aaron Ramsdale a chance in goal while Fabian Schar will be hoping to retain his place in defence after coming on for Sven Botman, who is a doubt for tonight’s game due to a head cut, against Fulham.
In midfield, Sandro Tonali is back to full fitness after struggling with illness. Jacob Ramsey started the Champions League match against Benfica last Tuesday but was rested versus Fulham having only just returned from an ankle problem.
In attack, both Anthony Elanga and Harvey Barnes will hope their recent positive cameos can earn them a place in the starting XI.
Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up:
Started the previous round against Bradford City and could get the nod versus Spurs despite Nick Pope’s good form.
1. GK: Aaron Ramsdale (in for Nick Pope)
Started the previous round against Bradford City and could get the nod versus Spurs despite Nick Pope’s good form. | Getty Images
Three games in a week could see Trippier rested. But if the 35-year-old is OK, then there’s little doubt he’ll start with Tino Livramento still sidelined.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Three games in a week could see Trippier rested. But if the 35-year-old is OK, then there’s little doubt he’ll start with Tino Livramento still sidelined. | Getty Images
Came on for Sven Botman against Fulham and didn’t put a foot wrong. While Botman is ok after his bang to the head, this could be an opportunity to rest him after eight consecutive starts.
3. CB: Fabian Schar (in for Sven Botman)
Came on for Sven Botman against Fulham and didn’t put a foot wrong. While Botman is ok after his bang to the head, this could be an opportunity to rest him after eight consecutive starts. | Getty Images
Thiaw joined from AC Milan for £35m in the summer and has looked like an absolute bargain so far.
4. CB: Malick Thiaw
Thiaw joined from AC Milan for £35m in the summer and has looked like an absolute bargain so far. | Getty Images