Newcastle United secure 'perfect' new signing & Eddie Howe's £105m decision

Harvey Barnes finally got his first goal of pre-season, after a summer of misses, to ensure Newcastle United were again winners of their very own Sela Cup.

It rounded off what was the perfect weekend for the Magpies on Tyneside, after the women saw off AC Milan on penalties, and the night previous, Sean Longstaff, Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy inspired Eddie Howe’s men to a 4-0 win over Girona.

So, what did we learn from the St James’ Park encounter? Here’s five things to take from the Brest victory.

Early days - but a lot to like

Will Osula has probably been Newcastle’s most high-profile signing this summer, which is probably more of a tell at the direction of the summer than anything else. But there were plenty of keen eyes wanting to see just what the Magpies had purchased.

And it was easy to like what was on show, with the player looking raw, yes, but quick and powerful.

The goal he had chalked off showed his qualities. A quick burst through, decent touch and smart finish. The only shame was to see the offside flag go up.

Considering his £15m fee and high potential, Osula is exactly the kind of third choice striker Howe needs - perhaps perfect in many ways.

Intriguing keeper call

Having signed two new ones this summer, it was very much a surprise to see Martin Dubravka named in the starting XI. He only got 45 minutes, but it was a very good cameo, with two or three top saves thrown in the mix, too.

Howe, after the game, said Dubravka was an important member of his first-team squad, read into that what you will.

Team hints?

It’s obvious the front three that didn’t start this encounter will be fielded against Southampton in six days time, but there’s definitely decisions to be made elsewhere in the side.

The midfield three is a tight one and a real dilemma for Howe with Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes certain, and Sean Longstaff, you’d imagine is as near as can be, although Joe Willock might have something to say about that.

However, at the back, things look a whole lot more open - and looking over pre-season, it’s hard to know if Howe has dropped any hints.

Given Lloyd Kelly and Dan Burn have not been fielded at left-back at all in the summer, would suggest Lewis Hall has that slot sewn up, in the centre, the partnerships would point towards Fabian Schar with Lloyd Kelly, although Dan Burn can’t be ruled out, given his leadership qualities - and sheer size.

Faith in Harrison

With numbers light in midfield, it was always a possibility, but I still think many were surprised to see Alfie Harrison’s name on the teamsheet from the off v Brest.

As has been the case all pre-season, he started brightly, but faded. It is to be expected of a young player, though, and there is clearly a lot to like about the Manchester City academy graduate.

It was a definite show of faith from Howe.

Geordie pull

Despite doubts about safety, due to concerns elsewhere in the city - and less than inspiring opposition, Newcastle still managed to pull in more than 65,000 for their two weekend men’s friendlies.

It has to be said, that’s pretty good going, even if it is well below capacity.

Friendlies aren’t always the easiest sell, so to get so many Geordies through the door was a real positive ahead of the new season. And let’s hope lots of new fans have been bitten by the bug.