The Magpies are getting ready for the second leg against the side from Azerbaijan
13:54, 23 Feb 2026Updated 14:35, 23 Feb 2026
Leo Shahar of Newcastle United in training ahead of the tie with Qarabag(Image: Getty Images)
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is toying with the idea of naming a clutch of youngsters in his starting XI against Qarabag.
The likes of Sean Neave and Leo Shahar played 45 minutes of the 3-0 second-string stroll against Fulham on Friday night and are braced for action against the side from Azerbaijan.
Striker Neave came off the bench for the 6-1 win in Baku and is eager to add to his experience at St James’ Park with a home debut looking on the cards.
The 18-year-old Shahar comes into contention with Kieran Trippier due a rest after playing in the last four matches without a break. Howe must also consider whether to use Republic of Ireland youngster Alex Murphy.
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The 21-year-old has only been afforded a couple of cameos in 2026 and is desperate for some action. Murphy also did not start against Bradford City in the Carabao Cup after being held back from a loan deal last summer.
With Newcastle 6-1 up, the question of when the youngsters will be given their chance has cropped up within the fanbase. But Howe sees the second leg of the play-offs against Qarabag – with that healthy lead – as the chance to give some of the kids a taste of the big time.
Howe will face the media at St James’ Park this afternoon, but had his say on playing youngsters last week and said: “The pathway is there for all the players in the various age groups beneath the first-team.
“At the moment, we have Sean Neave and Leo Shahar training regularly with the first team and doing really well. I am really happy with them. So the window is open and we encourage that.”
“We’re delighted they’re with us and we hope to give them opportunities in the future, if they deserve it.”
READ MORE: Newcastle United handed double injury boost ahead of Qarabag tie
As Chronicle Live reported on Saturday night, Sven Botman has not suffered any type of setback and trained ahead of the second leg with Malick Thiaw suspended and Fabian Schar injured.
Yoane Wissa also featured in training after missing last week’s first leg and the 2-1 defeat at Man City.
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