By Craig Hope

CARETAKER coach Chris Hughton has praised the contribution of Newcastle United youngster Xisco after the Spanish striker netted a debut goal during Saturday's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Hull City.

The 22-year-old - who only trained with his new team-mates for the first time on Friday - was thrown in for his black and white bow against the Tigers and sparked hope of a Magpie comeback when he turned home the rebound from a Charles N'Zogbia strike to halve the deficit on 82 minutes.

Unfortunately for the Geordies they were unable to find that much-coveted leveller and slipped to a first home reverse of the season.

However, coach Chris was pleased with the efforts of the former Deportivo La Coruna frontman.

"The most important thing for him as a striker is to score goals," Hughton told nufcTV.

"It was difficult for him because he was playing with a group of lads that he has only had one training session with.

"We will learn more about him as the weeks go on but he's done well and came away with a goal."