Soccer-Europe exit could have silver-lining for Newcastle

Soccer Football - Champions League - Group F - Newcastle United v AC Milan - St James' Park, Newcastle, Britain - December 13, 2023 Newcastle United's Miguel Almiron looks dejected after the match Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith/File Photo

(Reuters) - Newcastle United's exit from Europe stung but may have a silver lining later in the season as Eddie Howe tries to qualify the club for a second successive Champions League campaign.

The 2-1 home defeat by AC Milan on Wednesday not only ended the club's hopes of reaching the last 16 but also left them rock bottom of Group F and without even a Europa League consolation.