Newcastle United are expected to sign Rangers youngster Oliver Goodbrand
Newcastle United are expected to sign Rangers youngster Oliver Goodbrand
Newcastle United transfer target Oliver Goodbrand admits he is desperate for more big-time experience after breaking on to the scene with Rangers last season. The 16-year-old is set to move to Tyneside in the coming weeks, with the Magpies close to confirming a deal for the left-back.
Goodbrand is expected to join up with United's academy after completing his transfer this month, as part of Newcastle's bid to sign the best young British talent. He was only 15 when he made his debut for Rangers B in a win over Partick Thistle in November 2024, but is eager for more senior chances.
That hunger is something that will have appealed to Eddie Howe and United's recruitment team, with the youngster revealing how his call-up to the Gers second string came about.
“I found out the night before," he said back in November. "I thought I was just coming in today to train. I was just lying in my bed and I got a text at 10.30pm saying that I was in the squad. I was focused on just being myself, getting on the ball, and doing the things that I do best.
“It’s brilliant and getting exposure to play against experienced players is only going to help my development. It’s definitely something which will make me improve. I’m hungry for more of these opportunities because it’s what I believe will make me progress as a player the most.”
Goodchild is not afraid to look for advice from his fellow players too, something that bodes well for his move to Newcastle. He stepped in to replace Robbie Fraser in the game, and was happy to listen to when the more experienced defender had to say.
“Robbie spoke to me before the game and said to go out and be myself," he added. "He spoke to me after the game and told me ‘well done’. I look up to those players.
“It’s different going from playing in the Under-16s to a full-time environment in terms of the physical elements. And also going in with the B Team, the level just goes up.
"I’ve trained a few times with the B Team. I feel like the speed of the ball is a lot quicker and the players are more demanding. It’s not too much of a difference and I can cope.”
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