Anthony Elanga was finally confirmed as Newcastle United player on Friday evening but his first responsibilities in black and white were not to be featuring in the club’s first friendly. The Magpies made their return to action on Saturday but not in a game that had supporters clamouring for their first sights ahead of a new season.
Eddie Howe and co had arranged a behind closed doors match against Carlisle United as part of their early preparations ahead of the Premier League season. Stars such as Elanga, Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak were not involved in the game, with a longer break anticipated following international duty last month.
But Joelinton made his return after seeing his 2024/25 season cut short due to injury. And the Brazilian was able to play his part as the Geordies came away 4-0 victors against Mark Hughes’ side at the club’s training centre.
Newcastle boss Howe made use of two different XIs, one for each of the two halves against the Cumbrian opposition. Each side was a blend of youth and Premier League experience.
It should be little surprise that familiar names dominated the scoresheet. Sean Longstaff was the first to get on it with a long-range strike as he featured, despite interest from Leeds in securing a transfer – the Whites have fallen short in their offers thus far.
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Joelinton then found the net in the second period, with Elanga watching his new team-mates from the sidelines. The Brazilian midfielder’s typical work-rate saw him win possession after pressing high and then send the ball into the net.
Jacob Murphy, sure to want to make a good impression with new competition arriving in the shape of Elanga, then rounded Carlisle’s goalkeeper to make it three after Harvey Barnes cut the ball back. The duo were involved once again as the Magpies sealed victory.
Barnes switched to Murphy who played in a cross for 20-year-old Ben Parkinson. It was the youngster’s flick that had started the move and he showed creativity to finish it with a backheel from Murhpy’s ball in.
But crucially, Newcastle will be pleased to see their stars get pre-season underway ahead of their Champions League campaign. Mirror Football details the players involved below: