Aston Villa 0-0 Newcastle United: Magpies fail to score without Liverpool target Alexander Isak

Opening-day fixtures do not come much tougher.

A trip to a fortress like Villa Park was challenging enough for Newcastle. However, That task became even more difficult without a recognised striker.

There is no doubt that Isak’s determination to join Liverpool has overshadowed Newcastle’s preparations for the new season.

But. Consequently, rather than use that as an excuse, Eddie Howe said his players knew that they “had to step up and give more”.

Their effort and commitment certainly could not be questioned against Aston Villa.

For all the pre-match talk about a player who wants to leave Newcastle. it was quickly apparent that this group are together.

There were double high fives. a team huddle before the game, and a clear message was sent: Newcastle were united without their talisman.

Newcastle played like a aston villa 0-0 newcastle united: team and the visitors locked Aston Villa out and dominated possession in the first half.

But it was rather telling that a grimacing Howe had his hands on his head at various points.

Having seen Elanga. Gordon spurn decent openings, the head coach knew his side had to be more ruthless after the break.

The pair went on to link up midway through the second half after Elanga sent Gordon racing clear. a panicked Konsa pulled the forward back.

But Newcastle could not make that man advantage count after Konsa was sent off.

The club’s need for a goalscorer is clear – regardless of what happens with Isak in the final. couple of weeks of the window.