No injuries was the main thing for Steve Bruce, but a confidence-boosting display would also have come as a welcome boost for the Magpies’ squad. But how did individuals perform? Our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy rates the Magpies show with returning Matt Ritchie, Joelinton, Miguel Almiron and Matty Longstaff coming in for particular praise on what was a comfortable night for Newcastle.
5. Emil Krafth - 5
Careless with possession playing right wing-back. | JPIMedia Photo: Martin Swinney
6. Matty Longstaff - 8
A lung-busting display and a third goal to add to the collection. Game-by-game you can see why Steve Bruce was so keen to keep him around this season. | JPIMedia Photo: Martin Swinney
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A workmanlike show from the older of the two brothers. It's not his fault, but is being outshone by his younger sibling at present. | JPIMedia Photo: Sean Longstaff - 6
8. Christian Atsu - 7
The opposition must be taken into account but much better from the Ghanian winger. | Getty Images Photo: Marc Atkins