Newcastle United will return to playing in front of fans this weekend as they face Gateshead at Gateshead International Stadium on Saturday afternoon. This marks the Magpies’ first match with supporters in attendance during their 2022 summer pre-season campaign.
The club began their pre-season schedule recently with a 3-0 victory over Darlington in a closed-door friendly at their KNOX training center. Goals from Joe Willock, Will Osula, and Sean Neave secured the win. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe deployed a starting lineup featuring mostly established first-team players in the first half, while the second half saw a wave of academy prospects taking the field.
One notable inclusion in the lineup was 19-year-old Leo Shahar, who started at right-back. He filled in for Tino Livramento, who remains sidelined due to a calf injury sustained during England duty this summer. Fabian Schar, absent due to illness against Darlington, is expected to return against Gateshead, with Alex Murphy deputizing at center-back in his place. Murphy, 22, made six appearances last season and could seek a loan move this campaign to gain more playing time.
Shahar’s start comes amid a reshaped defensive roster for Newcastle’s full-back positions. With Livramento still on the mend and the departures of Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, and Harrison Ashby this summer, Shahar currently stands as the club’s only senior option at right-back. Newcastle is reportedly pursuing the signing of a versatile full-back capable of operating on both flanks, but until any arrivals are secured, Shahar is poised to stake a claim for regular playing time.
Having joined Newcastle from Wolverhampton Wanderers two years ago, Shahar has impressed at under-18 and under-21 levels. He was called up to the first team last season during an injury crisis and made his senior debut in a UEFA Champions League victory over Qarabag at St James’ Park. Additionally, he featured on the bench 17 times and is regarded as a promising England under-19 international.
Eddie Howe has praised Shahar’s versatility and potential, noting his ability to play effectively on both sides of the defense. In a previous interview, Howe highlighted the youngster’s athleticism and youth international credentials as assets that have earned him the coaching staff’s trust throughout his gradual integration.
Following their fixture against Gateshead, Newcastle’s pre-season itinerary includes a trip to Bristol City next Wednesday, followed by matches against Valencia, Everton, Bayer Leverkusen, and Strasbourg as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.