Alan Shearer has brutally criticised Newcastle United’s first-half performance against Leeds United after the Magpies found themselves 3-0 down at the break at Elland Road.

Newcastle endured a nightmare opening 45 minutes as Leeds United took complete control of the Premier League clash, leaving Matthias Jaissle’s side facing the possibility of suffering their first defeat of the new campaign and the German head coach’s first loss since taking charge.

The hosts opened the scoring through Ao Tanaka, who put Leeds ahead and sent the home supporters into celebration.

Things quickly went from bad to worse for Newcastle as Jayden Bogle doubled Leeds’ advantage before Dominic Calvert-Lewin added a third goal to give the home side a commanding 3-0 lead before half-time.

The performance left Newcastle legend Alan Shearer visibly frustrated. The former Magpies striker took to X during the break to express his disappointment, writing: “An absolute —- show from the Toon. 3-0 at HT is embarrassing.”

The scoreline was made even more painful for Newcastle following an injury to Nico Gonzalez early in the match. The midfielder was forced off after suffering a head injury while the game was still goalless, adding to Jaissle’s growing concerns.

Newcastle had already received another injury setback before kick-off, with winger Anthony Elanga ruled out and set to undergo an MRI scan next week to determine the extent of his problem.

Jaissle addressed Elanga’s situation before the match when speaking to Sky Sports, admitting that the injury could potentially keep the player out for an extended period.

“It could be long term. He will get another MRI next week and we will see,” the Newcastle boss explained.

With Newcastle struggling badly at Elland Road, the result could have a significant impact on the early Premier League table. If Leeds manage to protect their advantage and claim all three points, they will climb to third place, while Newcastle would fall to 12th with just five points from their opening four matches.

For Jaissle, the challenge will be to quickly restore confidence within his squad and prevent the heavy defeat from affecting Newcastle’s momentum under their new manager.

The Magpies will now turn their attention to their next Premier League fixture, when they welcome newly promoted and unbeaten Hull City to St James’ Park on Saturday.

After such a disastrous first half at Leeds, Newcastle will be desperate for a strong response in front of their home supporters.