Marcus Rashford made a spectacular Champions League bow for Barcelona as Newcastle United’s campaign got off to a losing start at St. James’ Park.

Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, became Newcastle’s tormentor when he broke open a tight encounter with two swift second-half goals.

In front of England head coach Thomas Tuchel, Rashford flashed a fine header beyond Newcastle keeper Nick Pope from Jules Kounde’s cross after 58 minutes to silence a typically feverish Tyneside atmosphere.

Rashford produced an even better moment nine minutes later when he hammered home a stunning 20-yard drive in off the crossbar past the helpless Pope. These were his first Champions League goals in almost four years.

The England striker was given a deserved standing ovation from Barcelona’s supporters when he was substituted with ten minutes left.

Newcastle were given hope of a comeback when Gordon slid home a finish at the start of seven minutes of added time, but Barcelona held out.