It was certainly a morale-boosting victory for Steve Bruce’s men in a pre-season campaign that began with a 1-0 defeat at National League North outfit York City.
While pre-season results often count or prove nothing, it does give players the opportunity to build fitness and stake a claim to be in the team come the first league game of the campaign.
And here, we pick out 10 players who have benefitted the most from the Magpies’ pre-season campaign ahead of hosting West Ham United on the opening weekend of the Premier League season:
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9. Dwight Gayle
A big plus for Gayle and Newcastle is the striker ended pre-season on a high with a brace against Norwich City. His ability to score goals at Premier League level has been questioned but he stands a much better chance when he’s fit and confident - something he has perhaps lacked in recent seasons. Bruce needs Gayle, even more so if Callum Wilson picks up an injury given he's the only other out-and-out striker at the club. Photo: Michael Regan
10. Jacob Murphy
Murphy is becoming more popular as each day passes after he clocked up the most minutes in pre-season. Thinking back to this time last year, the 26-year-old was fighting to save his Newcastle career. Now, he’s leading by example with his talent, attitude and determination. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall