Match officials confirmed for Villa visit

Steve Bruce's side travel to Villa Park in search of a first league win in seven matches against Dean Smith's Villans and this will be the second time the Wiltshire-born official has taken charge of a game involving the Magpies this term. 

The 38-year-old was the man in the middle for Newcastle's 5-2 defeat against Leeds at Elland Road last month. Hooper handed out four yellow cards that evening, booking Magpies midfielder Isaac Hayden.

Hooper took charge of three of United's Premier League clashes last term, including a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in December 2019. Miguel Almirón, who scored his first goal for the club that afternoon, was booked along with Fabian Schär.

Promoted to the Select Group of Referees three years ago, Hooper was the referee for the Magpies' 2-2 draw at Everton in January 2020 and handed out a yellow card to Ciaran Clark at Goodison Park. He was also tasked with keeping order in the goalless draw at Brighton & Hove Albion back in July, booking Matt Ritchie and loanee Danny Rose. 

In the 13 games Hooper has officiated so far this term, across the Premier League, Championship, FA Cup and Carabao Cup, he has shown a total of 29 yellow cards but is yet to brandish a red. 

On Saturday night, Hooper will be assisted by Darren Cann and Derek Eaton while Mike Dean will be the fourth official. Paul Tierney will occupy the role of VAR and will be aided by Dan Cook.