Newcastle were well beaten by Chelsea as their relegation worries deepened.
They improved in the second half but the damage was done in a flat first half, which saw goals from Olivier Giroud and Timo Werner leave United facing a mountain to climb.
The two strikes were the least Chelsea deserved from 45 minutes where they were in complete control.
In the second period United had a free-kick from Jonjo Shelvey and a Miguel Almiron chance but Newcastle were never in a position to add to their win over Southampton last time out.
Here are Lee Ryder's player ratings.
Karl Darlow 6
Didn't get much protection and was left to keep the score down again.
Emile Krafth 5
Big question mark over whether he should have stayed narrow or pushed further to the touchline to deal with Werner. Took an earbashing from Steve Bruce.
Ciaran Clark 5
Not a memorable return.
Jamaal Lascelles 4
Hardly inspiring stuff from the skipper.
Jamal Lewis 5
Should have done more to stop second goal. Offered bits and pieces going forward. Most touches for United with 61.
Isaac Hayden 6
Some important interceptions.
Jonjo Shelvey 5
Slightly better after the break but didn't get started in first half.
Joe Willock 7
Unlucky not to score another goal. Needs others playing with the same confidence.
Miguel Almiron 5
Not sure where this performance came from after recent good form.
Allan Saint-Maximin 5
Best moment of the game arrived when he crossed for Willock who slashed wide. Other than that nothing fell for him.
Dwight Gayle 5
His main contribution proved to be a defensive clearance. Worked hard and tried to encourage as others around him threw the towel in. Just 18 touches on a night in which he had no service.
Subs
Joelinton 3 (for Gayle 64)
Didn't bring anything to the table.
Ryan Fraser 6 (for Saint-Maximin 70)
Caused a couple of problems.
