Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe admits he is facing one of his biggest selection calls of the season for the clash at Southampton.

The head coach must decide who takes their place in the heart of his defence with Sven Botman, Fabian Schar and Blyth lad Dan Burn all battling it out to start at St Mary's. Schar missed out against AFC Bournemouth last week in a decision that Howe seemed to regret after hauling off the Dutchman at the break in the 4-1 defeat.

Playing two left-footed centre-backs in the middle of his Toon rearguard does not seem to be the way forward, meaning a tough call awaits on the South Coast.

READ MORE: Eddie Howe won't back down on Newcastle United transfer stance amid PSR fears and '£11m' debate

READ MORE: Newcastle United fans told fate of Southampton trip as travel statement released

Howe, speaking at his press conference tahead of the encounter against the Saints, said: "Yes, it was a challenge for Sven and I think Fabian has been ill and he wasn't 100% fit and then we had Sven who had done really well.

"I think he's been magnificent since his return, but obviously that was a challenge for him and I thought he looked a little bit fatigued in the game. Naturally, because he's been thrust into action, which has been a great thing for him."

Howe had picked Botman over Schar when the Swiss star missed the 3-0 win over Wolves with an illness. He had praise for the ex-Ajax kid but says that Schar is now back to full fitness after a nasty infection.

The Toon chief said: "You've got to find your rhythm and by and large I think he's been excellent in all respects. A challenging few days for him, but he's one player that we've tried to look after, and he's had a bit longer to recover and Fabian now hopefully is over his illness as well."