Eddie Howe admitted he was “devastated” after his side crashed out of Europe on a heartbreaking night at St James’ Park.

Paris Saint-Germain’s draw at Borussia Dortmund meant Newcastle would have gone through had they beaten AC Milan at home. And they were given the perfect first half start when Joelintion rifled in an opener just after the 30-minute mark.

But second half strikes from Christian Pulisic and substitute Samuel Chukwueze meant that Newcastle were not only denied a place in the Champions League knockout stages but finished bottom of Group F, meaning their season in Europe is over.

Howe said: “We’re absolutely devastated not to go through. It is tough to take at the moment. We are desperately disappointed. I feel for the lads. I see what the players have given and I can’t fault their commitment. That is why it is painful. I feel like forces have been against us this season.”

Had Newcastle held on for a draw, they would have qualified for the Europa League but as they went all-out for the late winner, Milan struck on the break.

But Howe had no regrets, saying: “I would much rather have the intention to go and attack and win. I’d like to think that’s the Newcastle way.”

And the Newcastle manager is hoping their European agony can actually be a positive in the Premier League.

He went on: “You always have to use disappointment – the setbacks – as motivation and fuel for your fire to make sure you continue to achieve. We’ll go back to the Premier League and try and do as much as we can to be consistent and stay up there.”

But Howe might now be without two more key players after Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon both limped out of the agonising Milan defeat.