The Champions League returns to St James' Park, and they aren't many better games to kick off Newcastle United's campaign than Spanish giants Barcelona. Eddie Howe's side were boosted by the 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday and have spent the week preparing for tonight's big game.

Anthony Gordon returns to the squad with his domestic ban not carrying into European fixtures, and could come straight into the starting line-up this evening. It could be the first time he links up with new striker Nick Woltemade, who marked his debut with a goal against Wolves.

United will be without the injured Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey, but otherwise field a strong squad against what will be a tough Barca side. Hansi Flick's men have started the season well and will be firm favourites this evening.

We've got all the build-up right here, plus team news, match updates and full-time analysis, ratings and reaction. It's going to be some night.

"Any player would want to start the game but I have to make decisions and make sure players stay fit. It was a hard decsion but one I felt I had to make. It is the same with Jacob Murphy who is nursing a bit of an achilles problem.

"I don't think the hype was a negative. It was........

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