Dylan Stephenson scored for Newcastle United in the 5-0 win over Al Hilal, and the 19-year-old is being tipped for a bright future on Tyneside.
The forward scored the Magpies’ fifth goal in Riyadh, launching an attack from his own half before combining with Ryan Fraser to find the net.
It was an emotional moment for Stephenson – his first goal for the senior team. Seeing him score was excellent, and it is always a joy to watch youth players thriving in the first-team.
Stephenson was one of five youth players called up for the trip to Saudi Arabia. He was joined by Alex Murphy, Joe White, Jay Turner-Cooke and Lewis Miley.
They are all hoping to have bright futures at St James’ Park, and Stephenson’s goal could give the teenager hope of becoming Newcastle’s next breakout star.
The move that led to his goal was started by Elliot Anderson, but can Stephenson follow him in becoming a fully fledged first team player on Tyneside? That is the dream.
What Eddie Howe said about Dylan Stephenson’s performance
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe spoke to NUFC TV after the game, and praised Stephenson for scoring the Magpies’ fifth goal.
“I think you always remember the first goal you score for your team,” he said.
“Really pleased for him, he’s a great lad, very hard working. Great attitude. It’s a great experience for him and hopefully the first of many.”
The next Geordie to lead the line for Newcastle
It’s great seeing local lads play for Newcastle, and it’s even better when they’re scoring goals. However, it has been a long time since a Geordie properly led the line for the Magpies.
Andy Carroll did return under Steve Bruce, but he was not the same player he was during his first spell. That’s how far back you have to go. And before that it was the legendary Alan Shearer.
So it would be very special if Ashington born Stephenson could become a first-team regular.
Howe was delighted to see him score on Thursday, and praised his attitude and desire to work hard. Those traits will serve him well as he continues his development.
While the change of ownership has brought big signings to Newcastle, it has also brought a renewed focus on the academy. Fresh youngsters are arriving, as the Magpies look to bring more players through their youth system.
Stephenson was with Newcastle during the Mike Ashley era, and had been knocking on the door with his goals at youth level. Now he has had a proper opportunity under Howe, and capped it off with a goal.
Hopefully it is the first of many for the senior side. It would be amazing if Stephenson becomes Newcastle’s next breakout star.
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