Goals from Miguel Almiron and Alexander Isak saw Newcastle United beat Fiorentina 2-0 to top the Sela Cup table on the matchday one.
Eddie Howe handed first St James’ Park starts to £52m signing Sandro Tonali, Lewis Miley and Alex Murphy. Tonali and Miley partnered Elliot Anderson in a three-man midfield, while Murphy played central defence with Sven Botman.
After coming close through Isak and Anthony Gordon, Miguel Almrion broke the deadlock in the 39th minute when he linked up with Isak to fire the ball past goalkeeper Michele Cerofolini.
Isak turned from provider to goalscorer inside the closing 10 minutes when he headed home Kieran Trippier’s corner.
The Magpies sit top of the group with five points (three for a win and a point per goal) ahead of facing Spanish side Villarreal tomorrow (kick-off 4pm). Here’s our Newcastle United player ratings:
After coming close through Isak and Anthony Gordon, Miguel Almrion broke the deadlock in the 39th minute when he linked up with Isak to fire the ball past goalkeeper Michele Cerofolini.
5. Sven Botman - 6
Calm at the back as Newcastle kept their first clean sheet of pre-season.
6. Matt Targett - 5
One of the players to play the most minutes in pre-season but still looks a little short of sharpness. Caught in behind too easily.
7. Lewis Miley - 6
Continued where he left off in America with another composed display. Showed no fear on his first SJP start.
8. Sandro Tonali - 6
Went about his business quietly. Showed his passing range in parts and produced a couple of neat touches.