We want to make our mark — Newcastle boss Howe confident of positive result against Barcelona

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has insisted his side's dramatic Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 was a valuable lesson for this season's competition.

The Magpies, who ultimately failed to make it out of the group stage, now prepare for a similarly challenging opener against Hansi Flick's Barcelona on Thursday evening.

Reflecting on their last Champions League campaign, Howe said the team’s focus has shifted from simply enjoying the experience to achieving meaningful progress.

"There were a lot of unknowns last time. The focus was always on trying to get through the group stage, but there was a feeling we were experiencing something new," Howe said.

"We enjoyed it, but ultimately we failed, so this time the resolve is stronger to try and progress, not just to enjoy the experience, but to try to make it a meaningful one," he explained.

Howe believes the team's ability to learn from the past will be crucial. "We’ve done that historically in the past, learning things and trying to add layers – whether that’s the preparation or whatever – and trying to build on it."

When asked if the squad is better equipped this time around, the 47-year-old manager was quick to point to the value of their previous experience.

"Well, that experience of [the PSG game], the size and magnitude of all the games we played, everything that goes into a Champions League game is different from the Premier League," Howe stated. "It feels different, the build-up is different. We hadn’t done that before and that experience will help us."

On a positive note for Newcastle, they will be able to welcome back forward Anthony Gordon, who is serving a three-game domestic ban. For Barcelona, however, a significant blow has been dealt by the absence of injured superstar Lamine Yamal.