Nico Gonzalez, Joelinton, Will Osula, Dan Burn and Amar Dedic returned to the squad after injury but Gonzalez was the only change from the 2-1 win over Hull City as the Spaniard came in for Sean Steur in midfield.
The Magpies, knowing a win would take them up to fourth in the Premier League table, made the worst possible start when Lukas Hornicek spilled what was a simple ball to deal with before diving at the feet of Sidiki Cherif to bring down the Coventry man for a penalty.
Hornicek couldn’t make amends from the spot as Jack Rudoni sent the Czech Republic international the wrong way.
Sidiki Cherif doubled Coventry’s advantage just moments after the break before a stunning strike by Sven Botman brought Newcastle back into the game.
United pushed for an equaliser but lost their way when Ellis Simms made it 3-1 in the 81st minute. Another strike by Stephen Mfuni then added to Matthias Jaissle’s side’s misery.
Here are our Newcastle United player ratings:
Made a complete mess of Coventry’s opener after spilling the ball before bringing down Sidiki Cherif for the penalty. Never looked convincing.
Made a complete mess of Coventry’s opener after spilling the ball before bringing down Sidiki Cherif for the penalty. Never looked convincing. | Getty Images
Started at right-back but gave Newcastle very little going forward. Replaced by Amar Dedic on the hour-mark.
Started at right-back but gave Newcastle very little going forward. Replaced by Amar Dedic on the hour-mark. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Lewis Miley - 4
A poor clearance landed straight to the feet of Sidiki Cherif who doubled Coventry’s lead. Was often given space to carry and play the ball forward but lacked the ability to do so.
A poor clearance landed straight to the feet of Sidiki Cherif who doubled Coventry’s lead. Was often given space to carry and play the ball forward but lacked the ability to do so. | Getty Images