Newcastle signed off their pre-season campaign in decent nick with a 2-1 defeat of St-Etienne.
Goals from Matty Longstaff and Joelinton capped the defeat of Ligue 1 opposition to end the pre-season preparations on a high. Mathieu Debuchy headed in the French side’s consolation goal in the later stages.
It was a decent afternoon’s work from United as they looked bright going forward and fairly sturdy in midfield. Here are Lee Ryder’s player ratings.
Martin Dubravka 7
Forced into wearing a training top due to colour clash but stayed focused. Some good claims in the box. Rooted to the spot for Debuchy late header.
Javier Manquillo 7
Some good runs down the right and won a dangerous free-kick from which Shelvey almost scored. Has worked his way into Bruce’s plans this summer.
( Sub Jacob Murphy 80 )
Fabian Schar 8
Always keen to get on the ball. Unlocked the St Etienne defence with pass for Joelinton’s opener. Composed and calm as always.
( Sub Dummett 77 )
Jamaal Lascelles 7
Kept things together at the back. A decent showing and will start against Arsenal next week.
( Sub Clark 77 )
Fede Fernandez 7
Another steady shift. But will he be on that opening team sheet vs Arsenal?
Rolando Aarons 7
Got through some of the more less glamourous work and kept Debuchy at bay with some fine blocks. Has enjoyed a decent pre-season
( Sub Willems 58, 7 Felt his way into the game and showed he can pick a pass forward )
Isaac Hayden 6
Recovered from a knock early in the first half. Didn’t look happy at being hooked.
( Sub 72 Matty Longstaff 8, - His first touch on his senior debut was to let fly from distance with a scorcher )
Sean Longstaff 7
Some great passing movement in the engine room. Helped track the runs of dangerman Ryad Boudebouz.
Jonjo Shelvey 7
Pulled the strings in midfield and was unlucky to see a free-kick hit the underside of the bar. Worked hard in the middle and afforded a standing ovation
( Sub Ki 72, 5 - Struggling to get into a congested midfield area - and has Longstaff junior for company in that battle now too )
Miguel Almiron 7
Worked hard but his final pass wasn’t always great. Probably trying too hard by the end to find that elusive goal)
( Sub Saint-Maximin 58, 8 Some nimble touches and forced the keeper into a great save )
Joelinton 8
One chance, one goal. But his hard running was on show for all to see. Stayed ice cool to round the keeper at the Leazes End to make it two goals in two starts.
( Sub Muto 58, 6 - Had the ball in the net and worked the keeper )