Eddie Howe to make one change - Our predicted XI as Newcastle United meet Manchester United on Boxing Day

Merry Christmas, one and all. We hope you have a fantastic day, whatever you're doing.

Newcastle United are back in action on Boxing Day as they take on Manchester United at Old Trafford in an 8 pm kick-off live on Sky Sports.

The Magpies have had their longest run without a game since the last international break now, which isn't really saying much, but it might have given Eddie Howe a bit of time to work on things with his players before Friday night's game.

We don't have any players likely to return for this one other than maybe Nick Pope, but we think it may come too soon for him. With that in mind, we're making just one change to the side that played Chelsea at the weekend.

Goalkeeper

Aaron Ramsdale - Will likely be replaced when Nick Pope is fit, and although he's returned to training, this game may be too early for him to start.

Defenders

Lewis Miley - The youngster has surprised everyone with how well he's adapted to this role.

Malick Thiaw - Continues to be a rock at the back, we're not blaming him for the slip that let Chelsea equalise at the weekend.

Fabian Schar - Was in danger of leaving the club in January, but he's probably doing enough to convince the club to keep him.

Lewis Hall - We're sure Howe would rather not have to keep using Hall while he's not 100%, but a lack of options means he doesn't have much of a choice.

Midfielders

Bruno Guimaraes - The game needs a Bruno!

Sandro Tonali - Starting to look more like the midfield maestro we all love after a tough few games.

Joelinton - Eddie Howe mentioned him in the press conference; it felt like a hint. He needs to prove himself right now, and this will be a good game to do that. Although dropping Jacob Ramsey would be harsh.

Forwards

Jacob Murphy - Murph just provides more opportunities than any other winger. For us, he has to start.

Nick Woltemade - We were going to go with Yoane Wissa, but after Big Nick scored two against Chelsea, we think he'll keep his place.

Anthony Gordon - Eddie Howe's golden boy. Starts if he's fit. This is the kind of game he will get himself up for, though.

Howe will have attacking options on the bench in the form of Anthony Elanga, Harvey Barnes and Yoane Wissa as well as a couple of options in midfield if things aren't going our way.