Newcastle United begin their pre-season campaign with a behind-closed-doors friendly against Darlington at the KNOX on July 18, 2026. Fabian Schar is set to make his return after a six-month layoff due to a foot infection, while several key players are absent.
Schar Ready After Injury Nightmare
Schar, who last played in January 2026, suffered an ankle injury in a 4-3 win over Leeds United. The setback led to surgery and a foot infection that sidelined him for the rest of the season. He has since signed a new contract until 2027. Manager Eddie Howe highlighted Schar's diagonal passing as a key asset. Schar said: 'There was unfinished business. I had a big setback with surgery which wasn't planned. I felt gutted for it to end like that but I feel I am still able to add something to the team. I worked really hard and I'm ready to go.'
Three Big Absentees
Bruno Guimaraes is still on holiday after the World Cup. Dan Burn is away with England, playing in the bronze medal match against France in Miami. New £43 million signing Bazoumana Toure is also on vacation after representing Ivory Coast in the States.
Potential Debuts
Two new signings could make their debuts: goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen and midfielder Sean Steur, who joined after a fortnight with Ajax. Both have been in pre-season training for three weeks.
Other Players Available
Joelinton, Joe Willock, Lewis Hall, Jacob Ramsey, Sven Botman, Alex Murphy, Nick Pope, Mark Gillespie, Harvey Barnes, and Will Osula are all fit and expected to feature. Tino Livramento is recovering from surgery after a World Cup injury with England, so Leo Shahar may play right-back. Lewis Miley is back in training after a broken leg but is unlikely to be used.
Academy Prospects
Youth players Sam Alabi, Mason Miley, Rory Finneran, Trevan Sanusi, Dylan Charlton, Anthony Munda, Seung-soo Park, and Matheor Ferreira have trained with the first team and could get minutes.
Howe's Approach
Howe typically fields two XIs in such friendlies. It remains to be seen whether he uses the game as a leg loosener or sets a high-intensity tone with longer shifts.
