Good save to deny Sam Greenwood early on. Had little chance with the former Sunderland man’s free-kick. However, the second goal was certainly saveable. Subbed for Nick Pope at half-time.placeholder image
Good save to deny Sam Greenwood early on. Had little chance with the former Sunderland man’s free-kick. However, the second goal was certainly saveable. Subbed for Nick Pope at half-time. | AFP via Getty Images

Newcastle United player ratings vs Bristol City: Nightmare return sees 2/10 score for £35m star

Charlie Bennett
By Charlie Bennett

Newcastle United writer

Published 29th Jul 2026, 21:20 BST

Bristol City thrashed Newcastle United 4-1 in their third pre-season fixture ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Bristol City inflicted Newcastle United their first defeat of pre-season with a humbling 4-1 win at Ashton Gate.

Goals from Sam Greenwood and Lorent Tolaj gave the hosts a deserved scoreline at the break. Max Bird fired the Robins into a three-goal lead shortly after half-time as the 3,800-strong away end feared a cricket score.

Ultimately, Harvey Barnes netted a consolation before a comical Sven Botman own goal completed the rout. Here are your Newcastle United player ratings from a pre-season fixture to forget.

Did not see as much of the ball as usual. Cannot blame him for any of the goals.

5. Lewis Hall - 5

Did not see as much of the ball as usual. Cannot blame him for any of the goals. | Getty Images

Several classy touches and passes in the first half. Was absent in the second, but Steur will benefit from this game. Newcastle should not be looking towards an 18-year-old new arrival for inspiration.

6. Sean Steur - 5.5

Several classy touches and passes in the first half. Was absent in the second, but Steur will benefit from this game. Newcastle should not be looking towards an 18-year-old new arrival for inspiration. | Getty Images

Lost the midfield battle against Championship opposition. Was never brave enough in possession. The late assist for Barnes boosted him up half a mark.

7. Jacob Ramsey - 4.5

Lost the midfield battle against Championship opposition. Was never brave enough in possession. The late assist for Barnes boosted him up half a mark. | Getty Images

Lacks the creativity that this team needs. Very passive. There are rumours that he could be sold to Besiktas.

8. Joe Willock - 4

Lacks the creativity that this team needs. Very passive. There are rumours that he could be sold to Besiktas. | Getty Images

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