We're at the time of year that always throws up one or two surprises at Newcastle United and the opening friendly win over Gateshead didn't pass by without a few talking points for Geordie fans to mull over in the beer gardens of Tyneside tonight.
Matt Ritchie's flying start to pre-season certainly caught the eye with a bright and breezy display that included a goal against the Tynesiders. When Ritchie came on as substitute away to Burnley on the final day many fans thought that was goodbye to the player who has served the club so well since 2016.
But there is a suggestion that, despite some high profile new signings being mooted, the former Scotland international, at 32, still has something to offer at Newcastle. Ritchie has returned in superb shape and his usual levels of professionalism and fitness are there for all to see.
Eddie Howe knows he can rely on the left-sided player and in many ways with Ritchie's experience and tactical acumen, the former AFC Bournemouth star is effectively like a player-coach in the background. Ritchie will keep his head down and get on with his work, but there is a chance his Newcastle adventure continues into the 2022/23 season.
Miguel Almiron stakes his claim - despite an uncertain future
Almiron's agent has already made it clear that his client has options elsewhere if he is not guaranteed a game under Howe. The Paraguay captain could find it hard to get a starting place if Newcastle did succeed in signing a star like Moussa Diaby this summer.
But fired up for the occasion, Almiron did not disappoint as the South American scored twice against Gateshead and showed one of the things that has often been missing from his game - clinical finishing in the final third.
Almiron has reached his peak years at 28 years of age now and needs to be conjuring up goals and assists on a regular basis. Given Newcastle's spending power these days even the £21million man is not assured of his future.
Although, if he continues in this rich vein of form in pre-season it will be hard for Howe to overlook the player he started just 10 times in the Premier League last season.
Joelinton has shaken off his injury very quickly and makes explosive return
There were hearts in mouths as Joelinton was carried off in the early stages of the last game of the season at Burnley when he suffered a laceration.
However, the South American made his return in the second half and caught the eye, scoring a penalty and having a hand in two other goals. If he is ready to take on the momentum from his player of the year display last term, this could be an exciting time for the former Hoffenheim man.
Eddie Howe's early defensive dilemma
The Newcastle manager did not turn to Sven Botman but will probably hand him his debut against either 1860 Munich or Mainz 05 next week on the club's tour of Austria. The Dutchman is certain to start the first game of the season against Nottingham Forest but who will partner him on the right-hand side?
Howe preferred Fabian Schar over Jamaal Lascelles for the majority of last season and handed the Swiss star a new deal. Leaving his captain out is a tough call but the Toon chief has another five matches to get that chemistry just right in the heart of defence.
It's what you would call a "nice problem" to have in football.
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