Newcastle's opening game of the 2024/25 Premier League season sees the visit of newly promoted Southampton.
Last campaign, the Magpies finished seventh in the league and although that is a decent final position, it was a downgrade from their Champions League qualification from the previous season.
Southampton earned promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs as they defeated Leeds in the final at Wembley.
Match Preview
Newcastle recent form
Newcastle won four out of their five pre-season friendlies versus Hill, Urawa Reds, Girona and Brest.
They lost against Yokohoma FM.
Newcastle injury news
Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Lewis Miley, Matt Targett and Callum Wilson are definitely out, while Fabian Schar is working for fitness ahead of the game.
Sandro Tonali will be available for selection from his suspension on 28 August.
Southampton recent form
Southampton's pre-season was a mixed bag as although they defeated Montpellier, Oxford and Milwall, they drew against Lazio and Getafe.
Southampton injury news
The only injury worry for Southampton concerns Kamaldeen Sulemana, who is struggling with an ankle problem.
Newcastle vs Southampton - who is the referee and VAR?
Referee: Craig Pawson
Assistants: Marc Perry, Mark Scholes
Fourth official: Dean Whitestone
VAR: Chris Kavanagh
Assistant VAR: James Mainwaring
Newcastle - Player to Watch?
Alexander Isak was linked with a move away from St. James' Park this summer but the club stayed firm over his valuation and so he remains a Newcastle player, and one of their most important.
Southampton - Player to Watch?
Adam Armstrong impressively scored 24 goals in the Championship last season and also netted the key goal that earned them promotion in the playoff final against Leeds.
Newcastle vs Southampton - Prediction
Southampton will be full of confidence for their opening Premier League game but their game is also a tough one away at Newcastle, who should emerge victorious at home.
Newcastle 2-1 Southampton
Isak scored an impressive 21 goals in the league last season and if you're looking for a first goalscorer here, look no further than the Swede.
Newcastle 
Southampton 
