Newcastle v Barcelona live: Magpies set for blockbuster return to Champions League at St James’ Park | OneFootball

Newcastle host Barcelona in the Champions League as Eddie Howe’s men return to the top-flight of European football with a blockbuster opening match at St James’ Park.

The Magpies last featured in the Champions League two seasons ago, where they memorably defeated Paris Saint-Germain but ultimately failed to make it through the old group stages.

Spanish champions Barcelona were famously beaten here in 1997 in a memorable meeting which saw Faustino Asprilla score a hat-trick for the hosts who went on to secure a 3-2 win and Newcastle will be targeting a similar result tonight.

However, Barcelona are a force to be reckoned with under Hansi Flick and are unbeaten this season with 13 goals scored across four domestic matches. Lamine Yamal is out through injury but in Marcus Rashford, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha the Spanish giants have more than enough firepower.

Tino Asprilla returns to Newcastle for Barcelona clash

Sky Sports News managed to track down Tino Asprilla before tonight’s match, with the hat-trick hero from 1997 back on Tyneside for the latest clash between Newcastle and Barcelona.

“Very happy to be here,” he told Sky. “I love coming back to the city. I feel the love I had nearly 30 years ago. I’m looking forward to it and we’re hoping to get the best result possible.

“I remember everything. It was a phenomenal night. I didn’t expect to play but I came out, heard the Champions League music... it’s incredible to be here. The whole city is behind the lads. A 3-2 win again would be amazing.”

Memories of Newcastle's 4-1 win over PSG ahead of facing Barcelona

Newcastle claimed one of the best results in their modern history when they humbled Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 on their Champions League return two years ago.

The Magpies ultimately did not progress but Eddie Howe believes his team are “stronger” this time around as they prepare to face Barcelona.

"It feels different, the build-up is different. We hadn't done that before and that experience will help us,” Howe said.

"I think the squad is arguably stronger than it was two years ago. Certainly the squad is different and I will back the quality we have.

“They are all tough games, tough-looking fixtures and the early games are really important for us to set the foundations."

(Action Images via Reuters)