Last night was just what the doctor ordered for Newcastle United. Not only a comfortable win and big three points to kickstart our Champions League campaign, but a performance that gives everyone a lift following a tough start to the 2025/26 season.

The 4-0 win was convincing, clinical and that of a side who belong at this level, with Nick Woltemade, Anthony Gordon (x2) and Harvey Barnes all on the scoresheet.

Here are our marks out of 10 and comments on each player involved in last night’s victory:

Starting 11

Pope (7) – Another clean sheet to add to his collection this season. Made some tidy saves (six in all) throughout and looked assured between the sticks.

Trippier (7) – Was at his vocal self berating the midfield for slacking off late in the first half which speaks to his importance in maintaining standards in the team. A few nice pieces of link up play with Elanga after some overhit passing early on.

Thiaw (8) – Another very positive performance barely putting a foot wrong, reading the play well, showing his pace and strength both in the air and on the ground. Has done enough to keep Schar out of the team. Burgeoning partnership with Botman looks very solid.

Botman (7.5) – Gets better with every game played. Has needed a run of games to regain form after injury setbacks. Passed another physical test with flying colours and breezed through the game.

Burn (7) – Asked to do a job at left back which he did admirably. Was caught out for pace in the second half which led to a chance but was otherwise solid.

Guimaraes (7) – Tidy in possession without taking the game by the scruff of the neck. Was withdrawn early to keep some petrol in the tank for the Forest game.

Tonali (8) – Consistently impressive. Will claim the assist for the opening goal but more impressive is his engine. Never stops running and has a knack of always being in the right place at the right time. Early corners poor, but his all-round game was superb after that.

Joelinton (7) – Death, taxes, Big Joe yellow. Picked up his customary yellow and had an opportunity to get his name on the scoresheet but headed wide. Taken off early due to the yellow card.

Elanga* (9) – Had a hand in the opening two goals and was a constant threat throughout. His pace terrified defenders and he will gain a lot of confidence from this performance. Promising link up play with Woltemade bodes well. An electric display.

Gordon (8.5) – Slotted his penalties away with aplomb but his contribution to the final goal was the most impressive. Winning the ball back in his own box and playing Osula through speaks to his workrate and quality. More of this please!

Woltemade (8) – Making a mockery of the taunts from Germany that he was a waste of money. His link up play is exemplary and the ball sticks to him more often than not. With Elanga and Gordon running in behind it gave our attack a whole new dimension. Concerns are that maybe he drops too deep and doesn’t have the pace to be in the box for the crosses? However, he is so good at releasing our wide men and his improvised finish to open the scoring was superb.

Substitutes

Miley (7) – Tidy performance as he presented for the ball and used it efficiently. Underrated defensive work too.

Osula (7.5) – Showed great strength and composure to set up Barnes for the final goal of the game. Seems to be improving each week.

Barnes (7) – Finally got the goal that he has needed. Hopefully it’s the start of an upturn in form.

Hall (7) – Added much needed balance to the left hand side when he came on, using the ball well and creating a chance for Tonali. Surely can’t be far from a start with Livramento injured?

Schar (NR) – On for the final few minutes, seeing Thiaw move to right-back.