Both sides are struggling to keep hold of the ball for prolonged periods, but it's actually giving a nice flow to the game.

Both teams have started with plenty of energy.

Alan Shearer
Former England striker on BBC Radio 5 live

It was a long kick from the goalkeeper, Joelinton battled for it and then Dwight Gayle tries to get in there in case he flicks it on. Fraser then comes in and has that volley from 20 yards out, which was a little tester for the goalkeeper.

A first shot at goal for Newcastle.

Ryan Fraser takes aim from outside the penalty area, but it goes down the middle of Emiliano Martinez's goal and it's easy work in the end for the Villa goalkeeper.

Jacob Ramsey earns his side a free-kick in the Newcastle half, which Matt Targett whips in.

It's headed back out, and John McGinn curls a shot over the bar from the edge of the box.

Alan Shearer
Former England striker on BBC Radio 5 live

Newcastle have to show energy and show intent to Aston Villa to try and prove to them that they are going for this tonight and they desperately want the three points.

Emiliano Martinez boots a kick out of play under pressure from Ryan Fraser as Newcastle look to press Aston Villa high up the field.

Joelinton then chases after Tyrone Mings, but gives away a free-kick to relieve the pressure.

A couple of landmark appearances to report tonight.

Ezri Konsa makes his 50th Premier League appearance, while John McGinn is making his 100th Villa appearance.

Plenty on the line for both sides at St James' Park tonight.

Away we go!

We have players on the pitch, so here's a quick reminder of the team news.

For Newcastle, Dwight Gayle comes in for Jeff Hendrick. Jacob Ramsey starts for Villa ahead of Morgan Sanson.

Newcastle: Dubravka, Krafth, Lascelles, Clark, Dummett, Willock, Shelvey, Hayden, Fraser, Joelinton, Gayle.

Aston Villa:Martinez, Elmohamady, Konsa, Mings, Targett, McGinn, Douglas Luiz, Ramsey, Traore, Watkins, Trezeguet.

Image source, .

Image source, .

Two goals, says Lawro. I'd take that.

Mark Lawrenson
BBC football expert

Aston Villa are still missing Jack Grealish but Newcastle are worse off injury-wise, and are going to be without Callum Wilson, Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron until the start of April, after the international break.

Both of these sides drew last time out, Villa against Wolves and Newcastle at West Brom - which was not exactly a thriller.

I have a feeling this game will be cagey too. The Magpies need the points more, but I think they will still focus on making themselves difficult to beat rather than going all-out for a win.

Lawro's prediction: 1-1

James Whitehead: Huddersfield Town put up more of a fight than Newcastle have done and they finished with less points and were relegated in March?! At least show you care about staying in the Premier League

Newcastle United

Steve Bruce didn't shy away from talk of a relegation fight this week.

He's aiming to shift the pressure on to Brighton and Fulham with a result this evening.

“We play first, so it would be great if we can go and get a result,” Bruce said.

“We know we’re capable of getting a result so we’ll try our utmost to post one if we can – then we’ll see what the others do over the weekend.

“Certainly experience helps and we’ve got enough experience in the dressing room to handle, to cope with the pressure."

Alan Shearer
Former England striker on BBC Radio 5 live

I just think if anything it is Chris Wilder that should be given the opportunity to bring that club back up.

They had a great time and enjoyed so much success last season. They brought a new way of playing to the Premier League and all the players and fans embraced it. Everyone has missed their fans this season and certainly the Sheffield United players have.

New owners come into a club, want to run it differently despite what Chris has done on a limited budget. That is football.

If Aston Villa spring one or two surprises this evening, we might know why.

Assistant coach John Terry shared that he had been studying the tactics and methods of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on his day off earlier this week, writing on Instagram: "Studying and learning from the main man PEP GUARDIOLA. Getting ready for our game Friday."

One to keep an eye on...

Alan Shearer
Former England striker on BBC Radio 5 live

Newcastle have to show more attacking intent this evening which I think is why Gayle is back in the team. He should give them more of a goal threat that they didn't possess in the last game.

This is a huge game for Newcastle. It is a very, very good opportunity to go out and get three points. Villa are a good team and having a great season but they are not the same without their talisman Jack Grealish.

Aston Villa have won just one of their six Premier League matches without Jack Grealish since the start of last season.

They've lost four of those games.

Aston Villa's European hopes suffered another setback in their goalless draw with Wolves in last week's West Midlands derby.

That followed a surprise loss to Sheffield United in midweek, and means Dean Smith's side have won one of their last five in the league.

But after their flying start to the season, they remain in European contention. Do you still believe, Villa fans?

Meanwhile, at Bramall Lane, Sheffield United are still 'in talks' with Chris Wilder...

Alan Shearer
Former England striker on BBC Radio 5 live

His [Steve Bruce's] neck is on the line and he knows that. He knows performances have not been good enough. He knows that Newcastle should be in a better position than they are in but they are not and he has to take the rap because he is the manager and knew what he was signing up for.