Micah Richards and Jamie Carragher have spoken about Newcastle United looking ‘nervy’ during the Champions League music of their opening-game clash against AC Milan on Tuesday night at the San Siro.
This was Newcastle’s first adventure into the Champions League in two decades, with many players experiencing the highest end of club football for the first time in their careers.
But former Manchester City right-back, Micah Richards, pointed towards Jacob Murphy, who started the game, and how he looked ‘nervy’ when the Champions League music was being played.
Anfield legend Jamie Carragher, who won the Champions League with Liverpool, understood the situation because he thinks it’s ‘something different’ to other club games and it ‘takes something out of you’, as he told CBS Sports on Paramount+ (19/09/23 at 7:45 pm).
In the end, those nerves didn’t translate onto the pitch during the early stages because Eddie Howe’s side started in a comfortable and bright manner.
That’s when AC Milan, who had just been thrashed 5-1 to rivals Inter over the weekend, turned the screw and peppered Newcastle’s backline – Nick Pope was lauded for his Man of the Match performance.
“AC Milan should have won this game, they have had 24 shots on goal,” said Carragher. “They have been totally dominant. PSG next for Newcastle at St James’ Park.”
Richards then added: “Were Newcastle a little bit nervy during the Champions League music? I saw a photo of Murphy before the game, as soon as the anthem came out, he started smiling and acting like he was (nervy).”
Carragher responded: “When you go into the Champions League, we have all played there, it is something different mentally. It’s a higher standard of football. Different referees.
“It’s not just physically, it’s mentally being involved at the top level of football can take something out of you. Newcastle will be really pleased to get something on the board for the first game.”
Positive start for Newcastle
This is a very good point for Newcastle and a great way to announce themselves on the Champions League stage again.
Going away to Europe isn’t easy, yes, AC Milan could have scored four or five. But the players showcased resilience, fight and toughness that is needed if you are to do well in this ruthlessly-punishing competition.
Plus, Newcastle, or so they hope, are going to do their main damage at St James’ Park.
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