The Magpies head to the Amex in search of the three points which would further boost their hopes of securing Champions League qualification, with 46-year-old Pawson appointed for the fixture.

The clash with the Seagulls will be the fourth time the Sheffield-born official has taken charge of a game involving Eddie Howe's side this term. He was in the middle at St. James' Park for United's opening-day win over Southampton - a match in which he dismissed Fabian Schär - before overseeing the goalless draw at Everton in October.

Pawson also refereed the 2-0 home defeat to West Ham in November - a game in which the only yellow card issued was to Newcastle defender Lloyd Kelly.

Having been a FIFA-listed official since 2015, Pawson stepped down from that role in December 2024, but did referee once in the Champions League and once in the Europa Conference League at the very start of this term.

2024/25 stats

Games (all competitions): 29

Yellow cards issued: 112

Red cards issued: 5

Assistants

Assistant referees: Timothy Wood and Wade Smith

Fourth official: Steve Martin

VAR: Andy Madley

Assistant VAR: Scott Ledger