Newcastle were handed a daunting task in the draw for the UEFA Cup group stage in Nyon.
The Magpies were drawn with Celta Vigo, Palermo, Fenerbahce and Eintracht Frankfurt in Group H.
Coach Terry McDermott: "It is a very tough group, and when you look at the other groups, I think it is fair to say ours is the toughest. There is not an easy game in there, to be honest. In terms of quality, the teams are probably much of a muchness.
"But the way the group system works, you have to say the home games are crucial and if you win them, then you should be all right. As I said, they are all tough games, but I am looking forward to them and I am sure the lads are as well.
"The first aim is to get through the group stage, and then we can hopefully look forward to being involved after the New Year.
"We saw Middlesbrough enjoy a great run last year which took them all the way to the final, and there is no reason why we cannot do that. We are due a bit of silverware for our fans, and we will be doing our best to win this, there is no doubt about that."