Newcastle United make their long-awaited return to the UEFA Champions League after a one-year absence, and they could hardly have asked for a bigger test than welcoming Spanish champions Barcelona to St James' Park.
Eddie Howe's side come into the clash with renewed belief after recording their f irst Premier League victory of the season, a narrow 1-0 win over Wolves. That result was a timely boost ahead of what feels like one of the most significant nights in Newcastle's modern history.
Their recent record in Europe's elite competition does not inspire confidence, with just one win from their last eight UCL fixtures D3, L4. However, that sole triumph came on home soil in a memorable 4-1 victory over PSG, and with six wins from their last eight matches at St James' Park in all competitions, the Magpies know they are strongest in front of their supporters.