Newcastle have enjoyed a solid pre-season so far with comfortable wins against Gateshead and 1860 Munich followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mainz 05 in Austria. They also got the better of Championship side Burnley in a training match in Portugal over the weekend.
They now prepare for arguably their toughest pre-season test against last season’s Champions League quarter-finalists Benfica at Estadio da Luz.
Pre-season presents an ideal opportunity for Howe to experiment and mix the team up, making predicting the side’s starting line-up almost impossible.
But given the level of opposition and the Eusebio Cup being on the table, Howe will be looking to start with a strong side.
17. Jonjo Shelvey - 8
On for S.Longstaff 46: Sprayed the ball around well and picked out a great pass for Murphy who couldn’t convert the chance. Hobbled off injured with 15 minutes to go after a very solid midfield display. Photo: Ian MacNicol
18. Joelinton - 5
On for Guimaraes 46: Another wholehearted pre-season display ended in a sending off following two yellow cards in quick succession. Photo: Stu Forster
19. Joe Willock - 6
On for Anderson 46: Found pockets of space between the midfield and attack well without posing much of a threat. | Getty Images
20. Jacob Murphy - 5
On for Almiron 46: Was originally meant to start the game before Almiron came into the side in his place to make a great impact. Had a good chance to give Newcastle the lead in the second half but was denied by the goalkeeper. | Getty Images