Bristol City 4 Newcastle 1

"It's all about getting players match fit" is the usual reaction to pre-season defeats.

That might be true, but a heavy defeat like the one suffered at Bristol City doesn't do anything to ease the worries that many fans have going into the new season.

And, 3,000 of those fans made the long journey to watch the game - a tremendous turn out for a friendly against what could hardly be called a premium friendly fixture.

Extended Highlights: Bristol vs Newcastle United 4-1 Extended Highlights & Goals - Friendly 2026 - YouTube

Same issues as last season

Newcastle were flat in attack and weak in defence.

After going ahead from an excellent free kick Bristol's other three goals all stemmed from quick breaks that caught Newcastle's midfield and defence all at sea.

And, all four goals were saveable and it wasn't a night for young Jouen to remember.

Another of our young signings, Steur, was neat and tidy and continues to impress, although whether he is ready for the challenges he'll face face in the PL remains to be seen.

Harvey Barnes celebrated his new contract with a goal but as with the rest of the team he had an unspectacular night.

Anthony Elanga was the bright spark but he needs to repeat that type of performance consistently in the matches that count.

The line up also exposed the desperate need for a right back signing as Jacob Murphy occupied that position after Shahar got the nod at Gateshead.

Neither of those players should start at RB against Liverpool and although Miley may well get the nod until Tino is fit, Wilson needs to bring a proper RB in pronto.

Big guns still out of the firing line

Wolt, Wissa, Osula, Bruno, Jo, Thiaw, Burn, Pope and new signings Bamba and Toure will make a difference when the season kicks off against Liverpool.

So, we need to keep reactions to the 4-1 defeat in perspective.

Plus, there will surely be more signings to come that will address the weaknesses in the squad namely a GK, CB, RB, LB and another mid if Bruno leaves.

I'm not expecting all of those defensive positions to be filled but a GK and RB are surely top of the list.

Bruno: what's going on?

Talk about being in limbo.

Arsenal are dancing so far under the offer pole that hopefully they might disappear.

My take last week was the club should give Arsenal, Bruno and his agent an ultimatum.

Pay the asking price by tomorrow or it's a definite 'no go' and Bruno stays.

This saga has gone on long enough.

Hopkinson needs to show some balls and lay the law down to Arsenal and Bruno.

If he doesn't, and Bruno leaves at the death, then Hopkinson and whoever else allowed this farce to stretch out for so long aren't fit for the purpose of their positions.

Last Post: WWE

Next Post: Eddie Howe Leaves The Club