It's Pawson In The Potteries

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Craig Pawson will referee Newcastle United's trip to Stoke City on Monday in the Barclays Premier League (8pm kick-off).

It is the first time this season the South Yorkshire-based official has taken charge of a Magpies' match, and only his third United fixture in total throughout his career.

The other two were a 2-0 win away at Plymouth in April 2010 which secured the Championship title, and a single-goal defeat at Swansea in March 2013 - Pawson's top flight debut.

So far, the 35-year-old has overseen four games - all in the Barclays Premier League - issuing 17 yellow cards, no reds and awarding no penalties.

Pawson has been a referee since 1993 and progressed through the ranks to become a regular in the Football League over the last few seasons, before being promoted to top flight officiating in 2013.

He was the man in the middle of the 2012 League Two play-off final between Crewe and Cheltenham, and also fourth official for last season's FA Cup semi-final between Wigan Athletic and Arsenal at Wembley.

On Monday at the Britannia Stadium, Pawson will be assisted by Dave Bryan and Constantine Hatzidakis, with Andre Marriner the game's fourth official.

Tickets for United's trip to Stoke are still available in person at official club stores, costing just £20 for adults and £5 for over-65s and under-17s. They will remain for sale until Monday lunchtime, and for more information, click here.