Charlie Whitaker scored seven for the Under-21s this season before moving to Notts County in January. He took his tally there to four on Saturday
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Charlie Whitaker of Notts County celebrates after scoring against Morecambe at Meadow Lane. He now has four goals in 13 appearances after a brace against Newport County. (Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Charlie Whitaker of Notts County celebrates after scoring against Morecambe at Meadow Lane. He now has four goals in 13 appearances after a brace against Newport County. (Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Everton academy graduate Charlie Whitaker continues to make his mark at his new club.
The attacking midfielder doubled his tally for Notts County on Saturday, his brace at Newport County earning his side a win that revitalised their promotion push.
It was the latest promising display from the 21-year-old, who has impressed since his January move and become a key part of the County first team.
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Whitaker is excelling in his first taste of senior football and scored both goals in the 2-0 win in south Wales. His first saw him finish calmly after being played through by Nick Tsaroulla in the sixth minute before veteran Football League goalscorer David McGoldrick turned provider in the second half.
The win moved County within two points of the automatic promotion spots. Whitaker’s previous goals had come in home wins over Tranmere Rovers and Morecambe.
Whitaker signed a six-month deal with the League Two club as he sought to progress his career. Having joined the Blues at the age of 12 he rose through the club ranks at Finch Farm and was linked to a push for the first team at one stage.
But his development was hindered by serious cruciate injury, Whitaker returning this season from an 18-month spell on the sidelines. That did not hold him back - he hit seven in nine for the Under-21s this season, earning him the opportunity at Meadow Lane having previously trained at Stockport County.
Whitaker was not the only player to rise through the Blues and impress on Saturday. Midfielder Jenson Metcalfe was named fans’ player of the match as his Chesterfield side won 1-0 at Barrow, also in League Two.