Newcastle United striker Sean Neave made a stunning return after he was selected for the Magpies' U21 side just a couple of weeks after being named on the bench by Eddie Howe for the Carabao Cup final.
The 17-year-old has caught the eye of head coach Howe, with his impressive goal tally for the youth team clear for all to see. Already an England Under-17 international, Neave penned his first professional contract with Howe's men last summer.
Standing nearly 6ft 1inch tall, Neave began his youth career at Wallsend Boys Club before transitioning into Newcastle's youth system. Last season, he netted 13 goals across all competitions for United's under-18 side, including 11 in the Under-18 Premier League North.
Neave was on the bench for Howe's team during their 2-1 win over Liverpool at Wembley Stadium on March 16. The decision was made despite him having never played a first-team game. As a member of the matchday squad, Neave received a winner's medal during Newcastle's trophy presentation.
And the teenager is now playing for the club's youth team in their Premier League 2 clash against Nottingham Forest at the Loughborough University Stadium on Monday evening. Neave continued his good form this evening, scoring Newcastle's third goal to help give the Magpies a 3-2 win over their rivals.
Speaking after signing his professional contract at St James' Park, the forward told the club website: "I’m really happy about signing my first professional contract with the club.
"Ever since I was young, it’s been my dream to play for Newcastle United so to sign a professional deal here is surreal."
When asked in February if Neave's presence around the first team squad was the positive of their injury crisis at the time, Howe told Chronicle Live: "Yes of course, we will always look to do that (give youngsters a chance). But they have to be at the level.
"Otherwise that is counter productive. We are always looking for the next talent and the person that can make a difference. We had Lewis Miley on the pitch. You can't underestimate how young he is, but I thought he gave a very good performance, of course there is opportunities for other players too."
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