Newcastle secured comfortable wins over Gateshead and 1860 Munich before suffering a frustrating 1-0 defeat against Mainz 05 in Austria.
They will face Benfica, Atalanta and Athletic Bilbao in their remaining three matches in front of fans ahead of the new Premier League season.
But with new signings Matt Targett, Nick Pope and Sven Botman, how will Howe look to fit them in to his Newcastle side?
Based on what we’ve seen so far in pre-season as well as what we witnessed at the back end of last season, here is Newcastle’s ‘best’ starting line-up as it stands.
5. LB: Matt Targett
The left-back has been steady in his three pre-season outings for Newcastle so far. He is expected to remain United’s first choice heading into the new season. | Getty Images
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Oozed class on the field in Austria with a goal and assist off the bench against 1860 Munich and another tidy midfield display against Mainz. One of the first names on the teamsheet at the moment. Photo: Stu Forster
7. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton has picked up right where he left off based on his pre-season displays so far. Friendly match or not, the Brazilian has been all action and helped Newcastle dominate the midfield in the matches they’ve played so far. He just needs to work on his end product in the final third and then he will be a real force to be reckoned with! Photo: Stephen Pond
8. CM: Sean Longstaff
It’s a tough call between Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock and Jonjo Shelvey. Going into pre-season, Longstaff was probably third choice on that list, but based on what we’ve seen in the friendly matches so far, he has certainly made his mark. Two goals in three matches from midfield and some high-energy displays is exactly what Howe is looking for from Longstaff. If he keeps this up, he could be in line for a start against Nottingham Forest. Photo: Ian MacNicol