Newcastle United opened their Premier League campaign with frustration, failing to break down 10-man Aston Villa in a goalless draw at Villa Park.
The Magpies dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge without wantaway striker Alexander Isak, who is pushing for a move to Liverpool.
Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon squandered big first-half chances, while Villa failed to register a single attempt before the break.
Villa’s hopes took a hit when Ezri Konsa was sent off for hauling down Gordon, yet the hosts dug deep to hold on, with new goalkeeper Marco Bizot impressing on debut.
Eddie Howe’s men pressed but couldn’t find the breakthrough, underlining their urgent need for a striker as Isak’s future hangs in the balance.
For Unai Emery’s side, the performance highlighted the lack of reinforcements in a squad that already looks stretched.
With Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio no longer at the club, and Jacob Ramsey set to join Newcastle for £40m, Villa’s depth is under question. Ollie Watkins carried the fight in attack, but he alone won’t be enough for a long season ahead.
