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A Rich Reward For Michael
Written by Newcastle Utd
Young midfielder is named on the bench at Fulham, and Reserve coach Peter Beardsley reveals how pleased he is
By Dan King
Teenage midfielder Michael Richardson has been named on the bench for Newcastle's game at Fulham as he continues his sensational rise from electrician to Premier League footballer.
The 18-year-old was signed from non-league Walker Central following a trial this summer, and was working as an electrician for Newcastle City Council. Now he could be pitched into the televised clash at Craven Cottage.
United's Reserve team coach Peter Beardsley spoke exclusively to nufc.co.uk about his pride in Richardson's inclusion.
He said: "I have to be honest, I've got a soft spot for Michael. I think his attitude is sensational - but the good thing is, he's got ability.
"It's alright having the attitude but you have to have the ability. And Michael has it."
Also travelling with the senior party was left-back Paul Dummett, who just missed out on a place amongst the substitutes.
And Beardsley added: "I think Dummy's got a chance of definitely playing at a decent level - hopefully our first-team.
"He's been outstanding all season, I have to say, and it's a fitting reward for what he's done.
"Steve Stone, who was part of this group, knows all about him and he's obviously had a hand in him being rewarded.
"It's brilliant that we've got kids who are going to get a chance, and that is my job - to get them into the first-team squad.
"To have two of them travel to London for the Fulham game - and if you include Fergie (Shane Ferguson) as well - is fantastic.
"In an ideal world the manager would maybe like a little bit more experience, but from our point of view it's a great learning curve for them.
"You can only have three on the bench that come on anyway, so why not get them involved? I hope they had a great night on Tuesday in terms of relexation and enjoying it, and have en even better day on Wednesday with hopefully a win."