Best Things Come In Small Packages

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Alan Pardew has tipped Adam Campbell to make a big impression on Newcastle United's first team next season, revealing that what the teenage forward lacks in size he more than makes up for in quality.

Campbell became the Magpies' youngest ever European debutant - aged 17 years and 236 days - when he came off the bench away at Greek side Atromitos last August.

Now 18, the diminutive front man added a further four appearances to that tally, all as a substitute, before the end of the campaign.

And as thoughts turn to the 2013/14 season, which will be underway in less than 12 weeks, Pardew is convinced that Campbell is one of the St. James' Park starlets who could have a key role to play.

"I look at that younger section, and although we've had some players do well on loan - Brad Inman, Fergie, Sammy - they still need to get more experience next year. They could go out again," explained the manager to nufcTV in an end of season review.

"I think the one who is really knocking on the door is Adam Campbell, and I would like to think he will be in and around the first team next year.

"He is only a tiny, little guy but a bundle of energy and a bundle of quality as well.

"I've been very careful to look after him this year, but if we can progress him then next season is a big year for him."

To watch the second part of Alan Pardew's exclusive nufcTV end of season review, click here.