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Boss Hails Haidara
Written by Newcastle Utd
Willie Donachie was encouraged by the display of new boy and goalscorer Massadio Haidara in second-string win over Stoke
By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter
Willie Donachie has backed Massadio Haidara to be a success at Newcastle United after watching the Frenchman score his first goal for the club in Friday's Barclays Under-21 Premier League win over Stoke.
The left-back overlapped and finished neatly to give his side an early lead before Adam Campbell and Jonathyn Quinn added more goals for a United side featuring Sammy Ameobi, Nile Ranger and James Tavernier.
But while fellow January signings Moussa Sissoko and Yoan Gouffran have wasted no time in making an impact at St. James' Park, the youngster from Nancy was always viewed as one for the future and Donachie is already seeing good signs.
"Massadio's getting used to the whole culture of the place," he said, speaking to the Chronicle. "It is very difficult for him, but he's got a strong left foot.
"He's a nice person to go with it but it will take him a while to settle in. But I'm sure he'll be fine."
Newcastle hadn't won at second-string level since October, but always looked comfortable on a day when Michael Richardson and Alex Nicholson made first appearances since September from the bench and Greg Olley and Rolando Aarons made under-21 debuts.
"It's always nice to get a win and a first clean sheet of the season too," Donachie admitted.
"It was just good to get games for Michael Richardson, Alex Nicholson, Nile Ranger, Sammy Ameobi and Tav.
"The more experienced players needed a good run out. All of the players involved have a lot to learn but it is an ongoing process.
"We had a couple of first year Academy lads playing like Quinny and Greg Olley, so it's good for them to gain that experience."