Newcastle United player ratings v Al Hilal: Two 9s and several 8s as ‘strong’ substitutes shine - gallery
Newcastle United thrashed Al Hilal 5-0 in Riyadh on Thursday evening to claim the Diriyah Season Cup - but how did the players fare?
A first half brace from Joelinton has put Newcastle in a commanding position at the break. The Brazilian’s first goal was a header set up by Jacob Murphy before he doubled United’s advantage just before half-time.
Al Hilal had several chances themselves in the opening 45 minutes but were denied by several good saves from debutant goalkeeper Loris Karius.
Substitute Miguel Almiron then netted a brace to continue his fine run of form before young forward Dylan Stephenson made it 5-0
Here are our Newcastle United player ratings from the match...
1. Loris Karius - 8
His first appearance for Newcastle United since signing as a free agent in September. Showed good handling early on and made a number of good saves. Can be very happy with his 45 minute display. Photo: Ian MacNicol
2. Javier Manquillo - 7
A composed display. Played the ball out well and helped win back possession despite being rarely tested down his side.
3. Jamaal Lascelles - 6
A missed clearance almost allowed Al Hilal create a chance from a cross. Had a couple of shaky moments but ultimately kept a clean sheet. Photo: Stu Forster
4. Sven Botman - 7
Was lucky to escape a big penalty shout for Al Hilal after a clumsy challenge inside the penalty area. His quality spraying the ball out from the back shone through in the second half as he came close to scoring a header shortly before being taken off. Photo: George Wood