The Serie A side provide a tough test for Newcastle United this evening and Eddie Howe has named a strong squad ahead of back-to-back friendly matches at St James’s Park.
Despite a brace from Miguel Almiron, the Magpies were defeated by Benfica in their last pre-season match and will want to put on a performance against their Italian counterparts this evening.
In his programme notes, Eddie Howe has said: “Whilst the results of these games are perhaps secondary to what we can learn and achieve from a fitness point of view, winning is always a good habit and back in front of our fans this weekend, we will deliver just that.”
Newcastle supporters will be eagerly anticipating the first glimpse of their new signings and here is the side Howe has chosen to start against Atalanta:
5. LB: Matt Targett
Matt Targett makes his first St James's Park start as a permanent Newcastle United player Photo: Gualter Fatia
6. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff is given an opportunity to stake his claim for a starting spot against Nottingham Forest Photo: Gualter Fatia
7. CM: Elliot Anderson
This will be the first time Newcastle fans will be able to catch a glimpse of Anderson at St James's Park Photo: Gualter Fatia
8. CM: Miguel Almiron
Can he continue his superb pre-season tonight against Atalanta? Photo: Gualter Fatia