Newcastle United’s first Champions League match in over 20 years saw around 3,900 away supporters travel to the San Siro for the group stage opener. Eddie Howe made three changes to his side that beat Brentford 1-0 over the weekend with Sandro Tonali returning against his former club, Alexander Isak starting up front and Jacob Murphy on the right win in place of Elliot Anderson, Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes.
Milan dominated the chances in the first half with 15 shots on goal to Newcastle’s two but the game remained goalless at the break thanks to Nick Pope’s efforts in goal for The Magpies.
Newcastle improved in the second half but still struggled to create any meaningful opportunities in front of goal while Milan posted a less overwhelming but still dangerous threat.
Here are the Newcastle United player ratings from the match...
9. Jacob Murphy - 6
A surprise inclusion into the starting line-up. Made a couple of runs down the right but only had one shot from distance to show for it. Still made an important defensive contribution by clearing Tommaso Pobega’s shot off the line. | Getty Images
10. Anthony Gordon - 6
Got running to cause the Milan back line some problems. Newcastle’s biggest threat at times with his pace, just lacked the final ball. | Getty Images
11. Alexander Isak - 4
Lacked any real service and forced to come deep just to receive the ball. Shifted out to the left following Callum Wilson’s introduction. Guilty of a couple of lazy touches and passes. | Getty Images
12. Callum Wilson - 5
On for Gordon 63: Didn’t have much of a sniff after coming on. | Getty Images