5 players who must now start as Newcastle United get perfect 'free hit' chanceEddie Howe's side will take a five-goal lead into the second leg of their Champions League play-off against QarabagView Image Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has some big calls to make (Image: Getty Images)Eddie Howe is far to professional to admit it, but Newcastle United's Champions League play-off with Qarabag is over. After a 6-1 win over the Azerbaijan side on Wednesday night, the Magpies go into next week's second leg with the game all-but done. ‌The Magpies head coach insists he will give Qarabag the respect they deserve and not take risks by sending out a reserve side in the second leg. Keep up with all the Newcastle United latest via the Chronicle’s dedicated Facebook pag‌Leo ShaharKieran Trippier has earned a break after some excellent performances in recent weeks. Article continues belowEnsure our latest Newcastle United headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source.

Source: Daily Mirror February 19, 2026 16:32 UTC