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Aleksandar Mitrovic and Daryl Murphy will compete for a Newcastle United starting berth this season - and the two powerful forwards will be in direct competition on international duty tonight.

With Murphy having only joined from Ipswich Town little more than a week ago, he has yet to come face to face with Mitrovic at the Magpies’ Benton training base.

However, the United striking duo could well start for their respective nations which Serbia take on the Republic of Ireland in a World Cup Qualifier at the Stadion Rajko Mitic in Beograd this evening (7.45pm kick-off).

Despite 33-year-old Murphy being a dozen years senior to Mitrovic, both 6ft 3in forwards are locked on 22 international caps for their nations.

Interestingly, however, Mitrovic has netted four times for Serbia, while Murphy is yet to score for Ireland - despite the fact he made his debut nine years ago.

Rafa Benitez recruited Murphy in order to provide competition with Mitrovic and Dwight Gayle up front, with the Spaniard deciding that another targetman was needed following United’s struggles in the opening two matches.

(Image: Newcastle United 2016)

What’s more, with questions still remaining over Mitrovic’s temperament, Murphy could well be required to fill in for the Serbian far more frequently than many fans would expect in the Championship in 2016/17.

If both strikers play for their respective nations this evening, we could see the first instalment of a season-long battle for Newcastle’s targetman slot.

Where can I watch it?

Serbia vs Republic of Ireland - Sky Sport 2/Sky Sports 2 HD/Sky Sports Mix/Sky Sports Mix HD (kick-off 7.45pm)