Newcastle United step up their preparations for the new season up a level with a friendly against Italian side Atalanta at St. James’ Park tonight. The Magpies’ match with Atalanta is the first of two in as many days as they host Athletic Bilbao less than 24 hours later as several members of the squad look set for a 90-minutes run out this weekend.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side will provide Newcastle with another difficult test following the 3-2 defeat at Benfica on Tuesday. It is the second time in succession they will be going up against a team from last season’s Champions League.
Ahead of Friday’s clash, here is the lowdown on all you need to know about the Italian side.
