The 21-year-old striker officially joined from Sheffield United on Thursday for an initial £10million, which could rise to £5m in add-ons to become the club’s fifth senior summer signing.
Osula is among 11 changes from last night’s 4-0 victory over Girona, with Lloyd Kelly also making his St James’ Park debut.
“He’s trained the last two days and trained very well,” said head coach Eddie Howe on Osula. “Very keen to make a positive impression and I think he has done that. I’m excited to see how he plays.”
Kieran Trippier also makes his first appearance since reporting back for pre-season on Tuesday. The right-back, who is attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, was handed extra time off after reaching the Euro 2024 final with England.
On the opposite side, Jamal Lewis makes his first St James’ Park appearance since December 2021. Lewis, who cost United £15m when signed from Norwich City in 2020, spent last season loan at Watford.
Meanwhile, the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Fabian Schar, Joe Willock, Miguel Almiron and Harvey Barnes. The Magpies bench is supplemented by academy players.
Here’s Newcastle United’s starting XI and subs in full:
“He’s trained the last two days and trained very well,” said head coach Eddie Howe on Osula. “Very keen to make a positive impression and I think he has done that. I’m excited to see how he plays.”
5. Jamal Lewis - 6
Made some positive runs forward but struggled to get involved, though it wasn't through a lack of trying. | Getty Images
6. Bruno Guimaraes - 7
Tried to make things happen as he feels his way back to full match sharpness. Newcastle’s beating heart even when not at his fluent best. | Getty Images
7. Alfie Harrison - 6.5
Put Newcastle on the attack early on with a couple of tidy passes forward but faded as the first-half wore on. | Getty Images
8. Joe Willock - 6
Showed some reasonable understanding with Harvey Barnes in the first-half but little to no impact in the second. Will benefit from his 89 minutes. | Getty Images