Newcastle United manager makes exciting Chelsea admission after ‘gritty’ 1-1 draw

Newcastle United were second best almost all game against a Chelsea side who looked sharp and took the lead in the 12th minute through striker Nicolas Jackson.

A mistake from left-back Marc Cucurella allowed Miguel Almiron through on goal and he finished exquisitely to level for his side and eventually prevent the Blues from recording their third victory in pre-season.

Despite the draw Chelsea who scored only 38 goals the entire last season have found the back of the net in all three games so far under Mauricio Pochettino with several youngsters- some who will not even be at the club next season going above and beyond to try and impress the new boss.

Given that Newcastle finished fourth last season and will be playing in the Champions League, Chelsea proved they were not far behind with a good structure and fit players working for each other, something Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe observed and affirmed after the game.

He told reporters after the draw in Atlanta: “It was a really good exercise and challenge for us. I thought it was a battling, gritty, determined second half and a young team at the end. We saw it out and got a good draw.”

“For Chelsea, I think Chelsea will be very strong this year, they've got a top manager and top players.”

Chelsea fans will also be delighted that Reece James got 60 minutes under his belt after the struggles of last season and having missed games against Wrexham and Brighton and Hove Albion in the States.

The right-back threw his hat in the ring for the Chelsea captaincy and showed great determination in the time he was on the pitch before Pochettino managed his minutes by bringing on the impressive Malo Gusto as he continues to ease him to the game. The Blues will now continue their preparations with games against Fulham and Dortmund before returning to start their season against Liverpool in the Premier League at home.