NUFC player ratings vs Cambridge - One awful 2, several 3's, 4's and 5's + three 6's

Well that was pretty appalling really.

Newcastle United are out of the FA Cup in the third round - AGAIN - after a spineless performance against League One strugglers, Cambridge United.

My first game at St James' Park in two years and they serve up that. I'm not going to enjoy this, but here's my marks out of 10 for each player involved in today's humiliating defeat:

Martin Dubravka - 4 - At fault for their winner, leaving his goal gaping after failing to gather the ball in the box. Struggled with an injury after that, so will hopefully be fit for the next game given Darlow and Woodman were both absent from today's squad.

Kieran Trippier - 6 - Started the first half really well and showed glimpses of real quality with some lovely passes down the line and some lovely switch of plays. Faded second half with a few rash challenges. His best yet to come.

Emil Krafth - 4 - NOT a centre back, under any circumstances. Got bullied by a league one striker all afternoon. Was rock solid against Man Utd, but Howe needs to learn his lesson when it comes to paying him in the middle. New centre-backs are badly needed.

Fabian Schar - 4 - Struggling to give him any higher. Didn’t look in control of the game at all, tentative passing the ball out of defence and played easy ball every-time. Few nice switches of play but wouldn’t be particularly bothered if he left this month.

Matt Ritchie - 3 - Seem to constantly lack concentration in games. Happy to scream at all of his teammates but needs to focus on himself. Was at fault for Cambridge’s (wrongly) denied penalty, putting in a clumsy challenge after being horribly outpaced. Hopefully Jamal Lewis is back soon.

Sean Longstaff - 2 - Looked totally lost in midfield, losing the ball in bad areas and constantly being caught in no mans land. After playing quite well against Man U last time out, he followed it up with a first half horror show today. Should’ve been hooked at the break. Improvement needed, fast.

Jonjo Shelvey - 5 - Kept the midfield ticking and was at least attempting to unlock Cambridge’s stubborn defence. Lacks legs but that’s nothing new. Few glimpses of quality and will look a better once we get a striker with good movement back into the side, but was one of several who lacked intensity or drive about their play today.

Joelinton - 6 - Plenty of running, pressing and intent. Looked like the only player interested this afternoon. Shows plenty of fight in games but lacking a No.10 next to him to create more chances. Still the first name on the team sheet for me.

Jacob Murphy - 6* - Was so unlucky to not get a goal. Was very lively in the first half with plenty of endeavour and running in behind, but he was either ignored by teammates or saw his efforts on goal well saved by Mitov. Totally disagree with Howe's decision to hook him in the second half.

Ryan Fraser - 5 - His final ball was hit and miss, but did look lively at times in the first half with some decent link up play with Kieran Trippier and a big chance created for Jacob Murphy. Howe obviously likes him but I’m still not convinced. Delivery from corners was very poor all game.

Allan Saint-Maximin - 3 - Looked completely disinterested today, even in the warm up. Complacent springs to mind. He too often failed to play the simple pass or lost possession to easily. Also feel Howe was afraid to hook him, despite the fact he completely deserved it. In my opinion, hasn’t been the same since Howe came in. Looked unfit.

SUBS

Joe Willock - 4 - Lacking serious confidence. Played the safe pass every single time and had one or two shocking efforts fly way over. Looks a man devoid of all the belief and ability he showed last seaso.

Miguel Almiron - 3 - Looked like a lost puppy. Might sound harsh, but not sure what he offers this side. Rafa the only man who could get something out of this player. Definitely not a starter; especially not on the right wing (a position that never seems to suit him).

Javier Manquillo - N/A - Came on for Ritchie for the final 10 minutes.