After beating Gateshead 5-1 in a behind closed doors match at the training ground last weekend, Newcastle are preparing for their first pre-season match in front of fans as they take on the German third-tier outfit at the 1,500 capacity Saalfelden Arena in Austria.
The match is set to be the first time summer signings Nick Pope and Sven Botman will be in action as Newcastle players as Eddie Howe ponders his team selection.
Pre-season gives managers the chance to experiment and rotate their squad. And with Newcastle having a squad of 29 players out in Austria, Howe isn’t short of options.
So will Howe decide to name a strong team or will fitness and rotation be the order of the day?
5. LB: Matt Targett
Played the second half against Gateshead, could be handed a start ahead of Jamal Lewis and Paul Dummett this Friday. Photo: Naomi Baker
6. CM: Elliot Anderson
Eddie Howe wants to take a closer look at the midfielder this pre-season before making a decision on his future. Putting him up against tougher opposition represents an ideal opportunity. Photo: George Wood
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Set to get his first pre-season run-out after sitting out the previous match against Gateshead. | Getty Images
8. CM: Sean Longstaff
Will be looking to make an impact this pre-season as he competes for a starting position in midfield. Photo: Ian MacNicol