Newcastle United prospect Sean Neave, aged just 17, has broken into Eddie Howe’s first-team squad.
The young striker impressed in the academy, which earned him the nod from Eddie Howe in December.
Sean Neave was seen in Newcastle United’s training ahead of their clash against Liverpool at St James’ Park, but was not named on the bench until the FA Cup fourth round tie against Birmingham City.
Since then, Neave has been named in six Premier League squads, including Newcastle’s win against Chelsea last Sunday. However, he is yet to make his professional debut for his boyhood club.
Howe could have given Neave his debut against Leicester with the Magpies 3-0 up, but he ultimately opted against giving him his chance and brought on Callum Wilson and Will Osula instead.
Neave has impressed Howe in training, but a new report has shared what Newcastle have planned for the youngster next season.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Eddie Howe to give Sean Neave pre-season minutes with Newcastle United
Neave has impressed in Newcastle’s under-18s this season, scoring seven goals and bagging two assists in the under-18s Premier League.
He was even called up to the first team before debuting for the under-21s. This season, Neave has also impressed for the under-21s, registering six goal involvements in six games.
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His form means Newcastle recognise his talent and must ensure they make the best decision for him.
According to the Athletic, a loan next season is a possibility for Neave, but it depends on whether the Magpies qualify for the Champions League. Newcastle’s under-19s would return to the UEFA Youth League if they do, so Neave would surely have a huge part to play in that.
The report also adds that Neave will have the chance to impress during pre-season, and Howe could even decide to keep him on Tyneside for more first-team opportunities.
Can Sean Neave play for Newcastle United this season?
After several games on the bench, Neave will undoubtedly be champing at the bit to make his professional debut, and it could still come this season.
The Magpies take on Arsenal this Sunday, where a win would effectively secure Champions League qualification. If they are able to achieve that this weekend, there is a good chance that Neave will feature against Everton on the final day of the season when there is little to play for.
Neave is not the only person who could make his professional debut, either. Leo Shahar has impressed Howe this season, with the 18-year-old now in first-team training alongside his young teammate Neave.
Shahar was on the bench for Newcastle’s win against Brentford in April, taking advantage of a free space in the squad after Matt Targett got injured.