Newcastle United marked their Premier League opener against Aston Villa with a five-star performance after a brace from Alexander Isak and goals from Sandro Tonali, Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes claimed a 5-1 victory.
Magpies head coach Eddie Howe handed a Premier League debut to Sandro Tonali and the £52million Italian marked it with a goal just six minutes in when he volleyed home Anthony Gordon’s cross.
Villa swiftly responded through Moussa Diaby but the relentless start didn’t end there with Alexander Isak restoring the Magpies’ lead in the 16th minute.
A nasty-looking injury for Tyrone Mings forced 10 minutes of stoppage time and Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was perhaps lucky to stay on the field heading into half-time after hauling down Miguel Almiron.
Trippier led United’s frustrations but it didn’t deter them with Isak adding his second and his side’s third in the 58th-minute with a delicate chip over Martinez. Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes then came off the bench to make it four and five-one.
Here’s our Newcastle United player ratings from St James’ Park.
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1. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - AUGUST 12: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United (hidden) celebrates with teammates after scoring the team's first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Aston Villa at St. James Park on August 12, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Newcastle United player ratings from the 5-1 win over Aston Villa. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
2. Nick Pope - 7
Did his job when called upon with three excellent saves
3. Kieran Trippier - 7
Gave the ball away cheaply in the early stages but settled after playing a small part in Isak’s goal.
4. Fabian Schar - 7
Won his physical battle with Ollie Watkins. Composed on the ball, but do you expect anything less from the Swiss?