Newcastle were today handed a UEFA Cup lifeline after they were given a place in this summer's Intertoto Cup.
The English Football Association was approached by UEFA after a Spanish entry was withdrawn from the competition.
"From the English clubs which expressed an interest, Newcastle were the next highest team in the Premier League table after Aston Villa, who had already been entered," FA spokesman Adrian Bevington said.
"Newcastle accepted the invitation to play in the competition and will take their place in the third round, which will take place on July 14th/15th and July 21st."
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Last month Newcastle missed out on a place in the UEFA Cup following the Fair Play League draw in Nyon, Switzerland.
- PA