In a fourth season of Saudi-led ownership, the first substitution made by Newcastle United was Emil Krafth for Jacob Murphy – two players bought by Mike Ashley for Steve Bruce and Rafa Benitez.
That is not a slight on either player. Murphy has revived his top-flight career under Eddie Howe and was a worthy starter. Krafth came on when Fabian Schar was sent off after half an hour and played a part in seeing home a hardy 1-0 win.
But the change served to highlight where the club is at, especially on a day usually reserved for excitement and anticipation around new signings.