Rafael Benítez is still in the dark about his January transfer budget and does not sound tremendously optimistic about the prospect of actually signing any players this month. Throw in mounting uncertainties about Newcastle’s mooted takeover and Benítez looks to have almost as many problems as Swansea’s Carlos Carvalhal before a relegation six-pointer both managers could desperately do with winning. Potentially key sub-plots include Jonjo Shelvey’s performance against the club he left amid talk of dressing room disruption in south Wales. Louise Taylor
Kick-off Saturday 3pm
Venue St James’ Park
Last season n/a
Referee Graham Scott
This season G12, Y23, R1, 2.08 cards per game
Odds H 10-11 A 7-2 D 9-4
Newcastle United
Subs from Elliot, Mbemba, Dummett, Merino, Hayden, Gayle, Aarons, Haïdara, Saivet, Joselu
Doubtful None
Injured Lejeune (foot, unknown), Mitrovic (back, unknown)
Suspended None
Form LLWLDW
Discipline Y35 R2
Leading scorers Gayle, Joselu 3
Swansea City
Subs from Nordfeldt, Bartley, Britton, Mesa, Van der Hoorn, Narsingh, Routledge, Fer, Fulton, McBurnie, Sanches, Abraham
Doubtful Abraham (hip), Sanches (hamstring)
Injured Rangel (calf, 27 Jan)
Suspended Naughton (last of three)
Form LLDLWL
Discipline Y31 R0
Leading scorer Abraham 4
