Newcastle player ratings vs Athletic Club: 8/10 trio outstanding but Howe handed new issue

Newcastle secured a 2-0 Champions League victory over Athletic Club on Wednesday evening as Eddie Howe's side climbed into the top eight in the standings. The Premier League side dominated for much of the encounter, with Athletic Club threatening a comeback late into the match.

Newcastle went ahead 11 minutes into the match after Joelinton had seen a goal ruled out for offside moments earlier. Dan Burn produced an incredible header to beat Unai Simon after getting on the end of a Kieran Trippier free-kick, with that effort counting. And Joelinton doubled his side's lead with a header early in the second half. Howe was handed a new issue, however, as Anthony Gordon was forced off with an injury at the end of the first half. And Express Sport rates and slates the Newcastle players.

Newcastle player ratings vs Athletic Club (4-3-3)

Nick Pope: 8

Was asked to sweep at times and rushed 40 yards upfield to clear the danger just after his side had taken the lead. Made a good save after Anthony Gordon had given the ball away in the first half. Then turned defence into attack when he launched the ball to Gordon half an hour in. Made a number of saves late on.

Kieran Trippier: 7

Illustrated his set-piece talents by whipping in the free-kick that landed on the head of Burn for the opener. Almost picked Burn out for a second time before the interval and caused problems every time he put the ball into the box.

Malick Thiaw: 7

Won his headers and was commanding at the back. Wasn't test too much until the final 20 minutes and will have tougher evenings in the Champions League this season. But still had to be alert towards the end.

Sven Botman: 6

Took a whack in the face in the first half but brushed it off. Gave the ball away just after Newcastle went 2-0 up and didn't enjoy one of his better performances. Headed a weak attempt at goal early in the second half.

Dan Burn: 8

Proved to be the early hero as he rose well to head in the opening goal, before blowing a kiss to the Gallagher End. Was aggressive at both ends of the pitch, but smashed an effort off target from a good position at 2-0. The local hero is enjoying the best days of his career with his hometown club.

Bruno Guimaraes: 5

Barely trained this week because of illness and it showed. Was sloppy with his pass when attempting to play Joelinton through just before half time and lost the ball too many times. Was taken off in the second half to rest up for the weekend.

Sandro Tonali: 8

Has been one of Newcastle's best players this season and showed excellent awareness throughout as he controlled proceedings in the centre of the pitch. Looked quality on the ball and pulled out some decent passes.

Joelinton: 7

Fired in a delightful finish after eight minutes but it was ruled out for offside. Then fluffed his lines after charging down a clearance at the end of the first half as he was thwarted by Simon. But made no mistake with his powerful header to double the Magpies' lead.

Harvey Barnes: 7

Started on the right but occupied his favoured position down the left flank after Gordon was forced off. Teased the defence in the lead up to the second goal and then put the ball in the perfect area for Joelinton to head the ball home. Will be disappointed to have been taken off early when he was just getting going.

Nick Woltemade: 7

Went close in the first half after being teed up by Harvey Barnes but misjudged his header. Worked hard and held the ball up well as he created space for his attacking team-mates. Was furious after being fouled at one stage in the second half.

Anthony Gordon: 6

Gave the ball away 20 minutes into the match and had Nick Pope to thank for sparing his blushes. The visitors hit the post seconds later, with the England winger breathing a huge sigh of relief. Used his pace well going forward but lacked a final product. Was forced off with injury before the break.

Substitutions

Jacob Murphy: 6

Came on for Gordon and injected energy straight away.

Lewis Hall: 5

Replaced Dan Burn 20 minutes into the second half and will be desperate for more game time in the coming weeks.

Lewis Miley: 7

Came on for Bruno Guimaraes, with the Brazil international struggling to impact the match. Looked dangerous on the ball.

Anthony Elanga: 5

Was given a chance to shine as part of a triple substitution as Barnes made way. Should have added a third late on.

Jacob Ramsey: 6

Introduced to the action with less than 10 minutes remaining.