Newcastle United were held to a 2-2 draw with Sheffield United today. Despite taking the lead twice – thanks to goals from Georginio Wijnaldum and Siem de Jong – the Magpies just couldn’t keep the Blades out.
While this fixture was largely for the purpose of gaining fitness, and giving a send off to Chris Morgan (who retired through injury three years ago), Steve McClaren will have concerns with the way in which Newcastle defended against the League One outfit.
With a delay on Newcastle’s application for Chancel Mbemba’s work permit due to the FA failing to organise a hearing before next Thursday, and Fabricio Coloccini seemingly wanting to depart St James’ Park, McClaren may be forced to line-up with the same defence as today when Newcastle take on Southampton [Janmaat, Taylor, Williamson, Haidara].
Here are the pictures from today’s game – from celebrations for the goals to Chris Morgan bidding farewell to the Sheffield United fans for the last time (as a player).
