Rafael Benitez' Newcastle United have been in a fine run of form this season and travel to Preston this weekend, a side they hit six against in an EFL Cup tie on Tuesday night.

As they look to consolidate their position at the top of the Championship table, it's important to keep the recent run of momentum going on Tyneside.

The Magpies currently have a three-point advantage over second-placed Brighton heading into the weekend and will be confident of extending their winning run.

Still, promotion-chasing Preston will be keen for redemption after their drubbing at St. James' Park earlier this week, representing a potential banana skin for the Toon Army.

Whilst that victory made Benitez' side huge favourites for this weekend's clash, he needs to ensure the squad gets the job done and don't take anything for granted.

Right now, the only thing seemingly looking like a threat is the idea of complacency.

To do that, the right decisions have to be made and we've identified THREE things he must do here.

Guard against complacency

After such a comfortable victory against Preston on Tuesday, many may predict three points against the same opposition this weekend is a gimme.

However, the Lilywhites will be determined to redeem themselves after that game.

Pushed on by home support, the game could be entirely different.

Benitez needs to ensure the squad is on point with their performances and doesn't let anything slip.

Failure to do that could prove costly come the final whistle but, if Benitez succeeds in guarding his side from such issues, then Newcastle should be able to continue their form.

Decide between Gayle & Mitrovic

Benitez has a decision to make this weekend as to who to utilise in the attack.

With Dwight Gayle being the stand-out performer for the Tyneside giants this season and Aleksander Mitrovic thoroughly impressing against Preston on Tuesday.

Serbian international Mitrovic caused them a wealth of problems the other night and could do the same this weekend, whilst Gayle can't really be overlooked due to his tremendous form.

It's a nice problem to have as a manager but these are the decisions Benitez gets paid to make and he has to be decisive in his call.

Whatever way the decision goes, Benitez needs to keep both men happy.

Give Diame a chance

After a slow start to life with Newcastle United following a move from Hull City in the summer, Mohamed Diame got off the mark against Preston on Tuesday and should probably have had a hat-trick.

Having found some form, Benitez must continue to trust in his summer signing and give him further opportunities.