Despite strong words from Eddie Howe some Newcastle United fans are expecting some changes at West Ham tonight

West Ham United host Newcastle United in the Premier League tonight live on Sky Sports - Kick-off is 8pm.

In what is Newcastle's final league game before the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, there are mixed feelings amongst the Toon Army as to whether or not Eddie Howe should go full strength tonight or protect some big players ahead of Sunday.

Eddie Howe already has a few big players missing for Sunday's game and the fear of losing another one, particularly someone like Alexander Isak is very strong.

However, results over the weekend weren't kind to the Magpies have now dropped down to ninth place in the League. A win tonight would see them climb back sixth, or indeed fifth if we somehow manage to put eight past the Hammers, but let's not get carried away.

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Eddie Howe doesn't believe resting players is a good preparation method

Eddie Howe has spoken about resting players ahead of the final and it does sound like the gaffer is set on putting out the strongest possible team tonight, as he told The Chronicle, resting players is not the best preparation.

"It is an important game, our Premier League form is hugely important and we need to get back on track, we need to build momentum on winning and the best chance we have to win any cup is to go into that game (the final) feeling as good as we can.

"We will pick our strongest team, resting players doesn't come into my head and if you think resting a player for two weeks before a huge game is good for them, that is not the case, they need regular football to give them the best chance of being fit and also to perform."

Callum Wilson's record against West Ham makes him a viable candidate to start tonight

Despite Howe's strong words, there is a strong case to be made for starting Callum Wilson over Alexander Isak tonight.

Not only does it protect Isak, but Wilson does love a goal against the Hammers, so it could work to Eddie Howe's advantage.

That being said, Isak could probably do with the minutes after missing the Liverpool game with a slight knock. Man, I'm glad I don't have to make this call.