AC Milan beat Newcastle United 2-1 in Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League fixture at St James’ Park.
The result eliminated Newcastle from contention for the Champions League title. They played without several first-choice players, including quartet Sven Botman, Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes and Nick Pope.
“We went into the season knowing the power of the squad and how important that was going to be, especially with the intensity of the games. Unfortunately we lost that power,” said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.
“We’ve gone into Champions League games with very few options in terms of team selections and in-game changes. That’s hurt us in a number of games.
“That’s not an excuse, it’s just reality. Even today, I had to make two changes I didn’t want to make. We’re devastated with the result.”
It’s hard to accept what happened today! I think we deserved more. I am very proud of our team and our fans. We have to go on with our heads held high! Nobody said it would be easy! Whatever happens, Newcastle United will never be defeated 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/FCVSyCM5E0
— Bruno Guimarães (@brunoog97) December 13, 2023
Howe, meanwhile, is waiting on the availability of right-back Kieran Trippier.
Trippier, who won’t play in Saturday’s English Premier League fixture against Fulham due to a suspension, exited the match against AC Milan injured.
“I think he picked up something in the first half. I don’t quite know what it is at this moment in time. He wanted to carry on but then he signalled that he couldn’t,” added Howe.
Newcastle currently occupy seventh position on the 2023-24 EPL points table. They have 26 points after eight wins, two draws and six losses.
