Eddie Howe thinks 21-year-old Newcastle player suddenly has a ‘great opportunity’ to impress

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Lewis Miley has emerged from the Newcastle United academy to become a first-team regular this season, and now another youngster is hoping to do the same.

Eddie Howe has welcomed Joe White back to the club, after he spent the first half of the season on loan at Crewe Alexandra. They were hoping to bring him back, but it looks like he is going to remain on Tyneside.

Following his return, it was reported that Howe wanted to take a look at White and see if he could do a job for the rest of the season, with Newcastle struggling for midfielders. He has been seen in training this week, as the Magpies prepare to take on Fulham.

Now a decision has been made regarding White’s future, and Howe has told the media that the 21-year-old is going to be working with Newcastle United for the rest of the season rather than going out on loan again.

Eddie Howe is keeping Joe White at Newcastle

Howe has spoke to the media ahead of Newcastle’s FA Cup clash with Fulham, and was asked about White’s immediate future at the club.

“Joe will stay with us for the rest of the season,” he said.

“We’re light on bodies in midfield. I think it’s a really good opportunity for him to come in and show that he’s at the level.

“He’s certainly improved. The loan spell has been a really beneficial thing for him so this could be a great opportunity.”

Huge opportunity for Joe White

As Howe says, this is a great opportunity for Joe White. However, it is an opportunity that he will not get the chance to seize this weekend.

That is because he is cup-tied, having represented Crewe in the FA Cup against Derby County and Bristol Rovers. That is a shame, as the game against Fulham would have been a great chance for Howe to give White some minutes.

The youngster is yet to make his competitive debut at Newcastle, but that could change between now and the end of the season. These will be an important few months for him, as he looks to prove that he really has what it takes to compete at Premier League level.

With Newcastle struggling for midfielders at the moment, senior minutes should come his way. As it stands, Howe only has Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley.

After Saturday’s game, White will be available for selection, and he will be eager to impress.