Newcastle United player ratings: Five 8s and two 9s as star is back to his ‘frightening best’ vs Nottingham Forest
Newcastle United player ratings from the Premier League opening day win against Nottingham Forest.
Newcastle United opened up their Premier League season with a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park.
The Magpies dominated possession and found their deserved breakthrough midway through the second half through a Fabian Schar screamer.
Callum Wilson then added a second inside the remaining 10 minutes to seal three points for Eddie Howe’s side.
Nick Pope kept a clean sheet on debut, while Sven Botman was introduced as a late sub in injury time.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’ Park - and here’s how he rated each Magpies player.
1. Nick Pope - 7
Didn’t have a save to make but claimed a few important crosses.
2. Kieran Trippier - 6
Miles away from his usual high standards. Misplaced a number of passes, particularly in the first half, but it’s hard to fault him, especially when Newcastle won anyhow. Photo: Stu Forster
3. Fabian Schar - 9
Stunning, stunning strike to break the deadlock but his overall display was just as impressive. Won all his headers against the 6ft3 Sam Surridge and produced a goal-saving block from Jesse Lingard on 38 minutes.
4. Dan Burn - 8
Was quite often up against the pace of Brennan Johnson but Burn marshalled him well. Always a threat from Newcastle set pieces.