Newcastle United have ended their pre-season friendlies with a 1-0 win over Ligue 1 side Brest.
Eddie Howe’s side were rampant on Friday night as Newcastle United beat Girona 4-0, and followed that win up with another victory over Champions League opposition.
The Magpies used a completely different starting XI, with Will Osula making his first Newcastle United appearance. Kieran Trippier also returned to captain the side, while 18-year-old Alfie Harrison got the chance to showcase his talent.
It was not quite as convincing as the win over Girona, but it was another decent Newcastle performance against Stade Brestois, and these are Geordie Boot Boys’ Toon player ratings.
Defence
Martin Dubravka: 7 – There has been a lot of debate about the Magpies’ goalkeeper situation this summer, and there are rumours that James Trafford is still a target for Newcastle. But Martin Dubravka reminded everyone of his quality against Brest, making some smart saves.
Kieran Trippier: 6 – A steady first pre-season outing for Kieran Trippier, who captained Newcastle despite Bruno Guimaraes joining the leadership group. The 33-year-old played almost 70 minutes and was tidy throughout.
Fabian Schar: 7 – Solid as ever at centre-back from Fabian Schar – no complaints.
Lloyd Kelly: 8 – This was Lloyd Kelly’s second start alongside Fabian Schar, and he continues to look like a great signing. Defensively he was excellent, while his assist for Barnes was incredible. I knew he was a good defender, but I did not know his passing range was this vast. Kelly could be an important squad player for Newcastle this season – as long as he stays fit.
Jamal Lewis: 6 – A middle of the road performance from Jamal Lewis. He was good enough at left-back, but did not set the world alight either.
Midfield
Alfie Harrison: 6 – The 18-year-old got the chance to start in midfield due to Sandro Tonali’s suspension and Lewis Miley’s injury. Alfie Harrison was neat and tidy at times, but did endure some sloppy moments as his inexperience showed. But that is nothing to worry about, as he definitely has the talent to kick on in the coming years.
Bruno Guimaraes: 7 – It was not Bruno Guimaraes’ best performance for the Magpies, but even when he is not at his best he stands out. There was one moment of magic in his own box, showcasing that Brazilian flair to weave Newcastle out of danger.
Joe Willock: 7 – Joe Willock continues to show that he can offer something completely different to the rest of Newcastle’s midfielders. A strong performance as he continues to build up his fitness, but it feels likely that he will be on the bench against Southampton.
Attack
Miguel Almiron: 6 – Pressed well and was energetic throughout, but struggled to have any real impact in possession. When it comes to who should start on the right wing when the season it starts, Jacob Murphy is very much ahead of Miguel Almiron based on pre-season.
Will Osula: 8 – This was the first chance for Newcastle United fans to see Will Osula in action after his £15million arrival from Sheffield United. It was some introduction, with Osula really impressing on his Toon debut. He showcased his pace and power, and almost capped off his first Newcastle appearance with a goal, only for the offside flag to go up. It was a smart first half finish though, and the 21-year-old already looks suited to acting as Alexander Isak’s backup.
Harvey Barnes: 8 – Took his goal fantastically, as he latched onto Lloyd Kelly’s exceptional lofted pass. But there was still a lot of work for Harvey Barnes to do, as he took on his man and burst into the box before producing a brilliant finish. The £39million man really has had a strong pre-season, and could force his way into Eddie Howe’s starting XI against Southampton next weekend.
Substitutes
Odysseas Vlachodimos: 6 – Came out an half time for Martin Dubravka, but barely had anything to do on his first appearance at St James’ Park.
Trevan Sanusi: 7 – Just like he was against Girona, Trevan Sanusi was tremendously exciting against Brest. He got another 45 minutes to express himself, and he did just that with some very nice touches.
Harrison Ashby: 6 – Replaced Kieran Trippier for the final 20 minutes but did not have much to do.
Travis Hernes: 6 – The game was pretty scrappy by the time the 18-year-old came on, resulting in him struggling to get involved.
Ellis Stanton: NA – Brought on to replace Fabian Schar late on, but was not on the pitch long enough to warrant a grade.
Anthony Munda: NA – Brought on to replace Willock in the 88th minute, but not on the pitch long enough to warrant a grade.
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