Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says missing Callum Wilson was a key factor in their FA Cup humiliation by Cambridge United.

It meant he was forced to play Joelinton in a more attacking position but the Brazilian still could not find a way through against Mark Bonner's side.

Skipper Jamaal Lascelles was also missing from the line-up as Newcastle crashed out to last season's League Two promotion boys.

Howe said afterwards: "There is a gap there and everyone has to stand up and fill that gap. Losing Callum was a blow and Dwight Gayle.

"When you lose Callum we are left without a recognised striker.

"Today I felt we missed that focal point. It didn't really work.

"The longer we went without a goal, confidence dipped.

"The body language and attitude was good from the players.

"We were not good enough in front of goal."

The defeat was played out in front of a full house at St James' Park but notably, they did not boo their team at the end.

Howe said: "We are devastated for the fans, a full house and atmosphere.

"We feel their pain and I want to repay their support and faith by winning games."