Newcastle United officials couldn't believe their luck when it came to the Champions League draw.

The Magpies are back in Europe's elite club competition after an absence of many decades.

However, they are awaiting a baptism of fire in the group stages given their draw.

Newcastle, who were in pot four, will take on Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan in the first round.

If they are to make it to the knockouts, they will have to beat some of the top teams in Europe.

Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the draw, manager Eddie Howe stated: "Behind the scenes there's been a lot of preparation and making sure that we're [as] organised as we can be for the Champions League and everything that that brings.

"I think for me, I haven't really gone there yet mentally, we've got so many Premier League games before the competition starts. We need to make sure we're ready for it because it will be a change and an added dynamic for the season.

"I'm sure it will test us and stretch us in lots of different ways. But I think ultimately we have to look at it as a huge positive, and we're really looking forward to it."