Rafael Benitez will send Newcastle into battle with former club Liverpool hoping to take advantage of their 'short blanket'.
The 57-year-old Spaniard enjoyed six years at the Anfield helm and won four trophies, including the Champions League, before his departure.
He is now engaged in a very different project at St James' Park, having dragged the Magpies back into the Premier League, but still has a soft spot for his first English club.
Benitez admits he is very wary of the attacking prowess available to opposite number Jurgen Klopp, but is keeping his fingers crossed that Liverpool's proactive approach may expose their defensive frailties when they head to Tyneside on Sunday.