Talented youngster Callum Roberts looks set to make his first start for the club at Blackburn tonight – a well deserved reward after impressing in the U-23’s with 12 goals and 8 assists already this season.
The 21-year-old playmaker – who can play as a number 10 or out wide – was left out of the second string’s squad to face West Brom last night, with the Chronicle confirming that he’s been picked by Benitez ahead of tonight’s FA Cup replay at Ewood Park.
It’s a big chance for him and one that he had to get sooner or later at the age of 21 – but the fact he impressed over pre-season and has since been involved in 20 goals in 17 appearances for the U-23’s suggests he’s ready to be given a shot.
Roberts made his first senior appearance for the club almost 4 years ago in the FA Cup, coming on for the final 11 minutes in a 1-0 defeat at Leicester, but his big chance looks set to arrive tonight.
Elias Sorensen wasn’t included in the U-23 side that beat West Brom last night, making some wonder if he was also set for a senior call up tonight, however it’s since emerged that he’s away with Denmark’s U-21’s.
Along with Roberts, Rafa has confirmed that fellow U-23’s Woodman, Sterry and Longstaff will be in the squad tonight – with all four looking set to start.
We’ll hear we go again ! FAcup ! Most privileged competion I’ve liked for 40 years supporting newcastle! Unfortunately yet again we will be out at first hurdle! I don’t understand why that man has not pumped millions now he would of been a hero if we even looked like winning anything. Nufc till I die.
Grieves nufc till I die(Quote)
Roberts may not be a more talented player at this moment than Cabaye, but if Cabaye were here, he would probably be boycotting taking the pitch.
William J Powers(Quote)