Barnes and Murphy were also involved when Newcastle lost to Everton in the Premier League under former head coach Eddie Howe in February.
This, however, was a very different XI after a summer of upheaval on Tyneside.
Eight starters were 25 or younger, while Joelinton, the captain, and Yoane Wissa were notably the oldest at 29.
Newcastle still expect key figures like Dan Burn, Lewis Miley and Tino Livramento to return—though it’s unlikely all three will be ready for the season opener against Liverpool—and the squad clearly needs more additions.
That won’t surprise sporting director Ross Wilson, who watched on at Murrayfield on Wednesday, or head coach Matthias Jaissle.
The German again spoke of a “vacuum,” echoing comments from the previous day, after the departures of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier earlier in the summer.
Jaissle noted that change can’t happen overnight and, with such a young group, gaps have emerged where players must step up. He said the club aims to replace lost roles with experienced options, but that it’s a process.
Newcastle are still pursuing a right-back, a more experienced central midfielder and, depending on Jaissle’s evaluation, possibly one more signing before the 1 September deadline.
There are a couple of friendlies left before Liverpool visit St James’ Park next week, leaving little time to spare.
Jaissle added that late-window signings often require an adaptation period, especially to the Premier League, but stressed the club remains positive and focused on moving in the right direction despite the obstacles ahead.