Newcastle United’s U23 side faced Huddersfield Town’s U23 team in the round of 16 of the Premier League Cup on Monday. The Magpies lost 2-0 away from home to the Terriers.
However, there was one significant moment from the match despite the defeat. Newcastle brought on youngster Santiago Munoz in the 64th minute.
The Mexican signed for the Magpies last summer on an 18-month loan deal from Santos Laguna. The Toon have the option to make it a permanent deal.
However, the 19-year-old has had injury problems since joining which has prevented him from playing sooner. There was excitement around the youngster with his naming similar to that of the protagonist of ‘Goal!’ and his top performances in the Mexican League.
How did he fare on his debut?
Munoz’s debut wasn’t much of a memorable one, unfortunately. He looked to cause problems to Huddersfield’s backline but wasn’t successful.
There were a couple of moments of promise for the Mexican. He struck a half-volley that was blocked by Terriers defender David Adewoju.
Newcastle prospect Joe Oliver whipped in a cross which nearly found Munoz, but the ball was cleared away to safety. The next game for the U23s is against Divison 2 League leaders Fulham at home.
With less than a year left of his loan, Munoz needs to kick on and show his capabilities
It’s been a slow start for Munoz on Tyneside due to his injury. But now the pressure is on for the striker born in El Paso, Texas. His loan runs out in just less than a year now and he’s only made that one appearance as a substitute.
If the youngster wants to make the move to Newcastle permanent, he’ll need to hit form pretty quickly for that to happen. This is going to be a big test for the resolve and character of the forward, but if he can succeed, the Magpies may have a player on their hands.
Perhaps the pressure will spur him on, but time is slowly running out for Santiago Munoz. Thus far, it’s not been what some fans would’ve hoped for, his first few months sat on the sidelines.
But if he hits the ground running, that slow start will be quickly forgotten about by those on Tyneside.
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