The Magpies fielded a completely different starting XI, with Will Osula making his first appearance for Newcastle United. Kieran Trippier also returned as captain, while 18-year-old Alfie Harrison was given the chance to showcase his talent.

It wasn’t quite as convincing as the win against Girona, but it was another decent performance from Newcastle against Stade Brestois, and these are Geordie Boot Boys Toon player ratings.

defense

Martin Dubravka: 7 – There has been a lot of discussion about the Magpies’ goalkeeping situation this summer and there are rumours that James Trafford is still a target for Newcastle. But Martin Dubravka reminded everyone of his quality against Brest and produced some smart saves.

Kieran Trippier: 6 – A solid first pre-season appearance for Kieran Trippier, who captained Newcastle despite the addition of Bruno Guimaraes to the leadership group. The 33-year-old played nearly 70 minutes and was decent throughout.

Fabian Schär: 7 – Solid as always in central defence with Fabian Schär – no complaints.

Lloyd Kelly: 8 – This was Lloyd Kelly’s second start alongside Fabian Schar and he continues to look like a great signing. Defensively he was outstanding and his assist to Barnes was incredible. I knew he was a good defender but I didn’t realise his passing range was so great. Kelly could be a key squad player for Newcastle this season – as long as he stays fit.

Jamal Lewis: 6 – A mediocre performance from Jamal Lewis. He was quite good at left back, but he didn’t cause any surprises.

midfield

Alfie Harrison: 6 – The 18-year-old was given the chance to start in midfield as Sandro Tonali was suspended and Lewis Miley was injured. Alfie Harrison played neatly and cleanly at times, but also had some sloppy moments, which showed his inexperience. But that is no cause for concern as he definitely has the talent to grow even further in the coming years.

Bruno Guimarães: 7 – It wasn’t Bruno Guimaraes’ best performance for the Magpies, but even when he’s not at his best he stands out. There was a magical moment in his own penalty area when he showed his Brazilian flair and put Newcastle out of danger.

Joe Willock: 7 – Joe Willock continues to show that he has something very different to offer to the rest of Newcastle’s midfielders, putting in a strong performance and continuing to work on his fitness, but it seems likely that he will start on the bench against Southampton.

attack

Miguel Almiron: 6 – Pressed well and was energetic throughout, but struggled to make a real impact in possession. When it comes to who should start on the right wing at the start of the season, Jacob Murphy is well ahead of Miguel Almiron based on preseason.

Will Osula: 8 – This was the first chance for Newcastle United fans to see Will Osula in action following his £15 million move from Sheffield United. It was a great introduction as Osula really impressed on his debut for the Toon. He showed off his pace and power and almost capped his first appearance for Newcastle with a goal but the offside flag was raised. It was a clever first-half finish though and the 21-year-old already looks set to step in as a suitable replacement for Alexander Isak.

Harvey Barnes: 8 – He scored his goal brilliantly, collecting Lloyd Kelly’s exceptional high pass. But Harvey Barnes still had a lot of work to do as he tackled his marker, broke into the box and produced a brilliant finish. The £39m man has really had a strong pre-season and could force his way into Eddie Howe’s starting XI against Southampton next weekend.

Substitute

Odysseas Vlachodimos: 6 – Came off at half-time for Martin Dubravka but had little to do in his first appearance at St. James’ Park.

Trevan Sanusi: 7 – Just like against Girona, Trevan Sanusi was incredibly exciting against Brest. He was given another 45 minutes to develop and he did just that with some very nice touches.

Harrison Ashby: 6 – Replaced Kieran Trippier for the final 20 minutes but didn’t have much to do.

Travis Hernes: 6 – When the 18-year-old came on as a substitute, the game was already quite chaotic, making it difficult for him to get involved in the game.

Ellis Stanton: NA – Came on late for Fabian Schär, but was not on the pitch long enough to earn a mark.

Anthony Munda: N/A – Came on as a replacement for Willock in the 88th minute but was not on the pitch long enough to earn a mark.

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