Newcastle United star hails 'brilliant club' Leeds United with cheeky apology for Sean Longstaff

One of Newcastle United's veterans expects 'brilliant club' Leeds United to pose a difficult challenge at St James' Park tonight but hopes his old team-mate Sean Longstaff doesn't enjoy his return.

Leeds hope to stretch their unbeaten run to eight games in the north east this evening, having beaten Chelsea and held Liverpool twice during this recent purple patch. On Sunday they were well worth a point against Manchester United but the toll of a hectic fixture schedule and the intense style of play they're employing showed itself at times during the Elland Road clash.

Daniel Farke believed the turnaround between that game and the Newcastle clash would not present a concern and the German has had a major boost in the sooner-than-expected comeback of Joe Rodon. The Welsh international resumes his defensive partnership with Pascal Struijk and Jaka Bijol, while Ethan Ampadu also returns from suspension.

Newcastle star Kieran Trippier anticipates a tough battle. "Home or away Leeds is always a difficult fixture," he wrote in his programme notes. "They're fighting for different reasons, they bring fantastic support and it's a brilliant club with an impressive manager and some good players, including Sean Longstaff who I'm sure will get a great reception tonight."

Longstaff made an emotional exit from St James' Park in the summer, signing for Leeds to help with their Premier League survival bid. An impressive start to the season was curtailed by a calf injury and though he was on the bench against Manchester United, he is not involved at all against the Magpies as he continues to work his way back to full fitness. Had he been on the bench and in with a chance of action, ex-team-mate Trippier was keen for him to receive recognition from the home fans but not fare well on the pitch.

"In football, it's all about respect and Longy is a Geordie through and through. He came through the youth system, played more than 200 games for our club and was a big part of our success in winning the cup final and qualifying for the Champions League," said the England international. "I'm sure our fans will give one of their own the appreciation he deserves, but I'm sorry Sean, I hope tonight you don't score and I hope you don't play well."