Murrayfield Defeat Lays Bare Newcastle's Gaps

Newcastle United's pre-season preparations suffered a significant setback on Wednesday evening as they fell to a 3-1 defeat against Everton at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. The loss, coming just over a week before the Premier League opener against Liverpool, has intensified concerns about the squad's readiness.

Newcastle actually started brightly before Everton were gifted the lead. Sven Botman's defensive error eventually allowed Thierno Barry to open the scoring. Iliman Ndiaye doubled Everton's advantage from the penalty spot in the 36th minute after Joelinton conceded a foul on Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. At the break, Jaissle changed his entire outfield, fielding an academy defence for the second half. Tyrique George added Everton's third in the 73rd minute before Jacob Murphy laid on Harvey Barnes for Newcastle's consolation.

Jaissle Admits Liverpool Opener Will Come Too Soon

Head coach Matthias Jaissle admitted it is