Despite the lack of first-team additions, Newcastle had a productive January when it came to youth recruitment.
Following moves for Irish talent Kyle Fitzgerald – who signed after turning 18 last month – and Genclerbirligi teenager Baran Yildiz, it’s emerged that another teenager has joined our Academy.
Building our previously neglected youth system has been a key focus since new owners arrived and it’s clearly something Paul Mitchell is looking to improve following his arrival on Tyneside.
18-year-old attacking midfielder Fraser Harper has signed a professional contract with Newcastle after impressing on trial, scoring twice and grabbing an assist during his spell with the developmental set-up.
Harper previously made 49 appearances for Wolves’ youth side but has made the switch to the Magpies after a successful trial, and will now get the chance to impress in our second string.
The former Bristol City talent is represented by the same agency that look after Kieran Trippier and have helped him settle since his arrival in the North East.
A concerted and continued effort is clearly being made to bolster our youth set-up and to create a more competitive atmosphere at academy level. Part of the long-term project plan for PIF is to produce stars from within the club, with Lewis Miley already proving that players can earn involvement in the starting set-up.
Newcastle United have also added Robbie Stockdale to the backroom staff at U21 level, joining the club as an assistant to Diarmuid O’Carroll.
The former Scotland international’s wealth of coaching experience makes him a perfect addition to our backroom staff.
Having previously worked with Sunderland’s youth system and first team, Stockdale will be useful in bridging the gap between the Under-21s and first team.
A robust recruitment strategy is in place, added to with experienced coaching staff. Our youth system is looking increasingly promising with the club continuing to build a foundation of young talent, our long-term success may well be rooted in developing homegrown stars who can transition into the first-team.
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