Roberts Ready To Push On After Debut

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Callum Roberts has set his sights on more first team appearances before the end of the season, having made his Newcastle United debut at Leicester City in the FA Cup on Saturday.

The 17-year-old winger was introduced from the substitutes' bench for the final 11 minutes of the Magpies' 1-0 defeat - reward for a number of eye-catching performances at under-21 level this term.

And while he was unable to help turn around a disappointing afternoon during his brief cameo at the King Power Stadium, Roberts admitted pulling on the famous black and white striped shirt was a dream come true. 

"It was a massive moment for me, being only 17 and playing for the first team. It was a great day, despite the result," the South Shields-born youngster told nufc.co.uk.

"I was warming up when JC (John Carver, caretaker manager) called me over and said 'it's your time - make sure you're ready'.

"I feel ready to step up so I hope I get another chance to try and impress the coaches.

"I've always dreamt about making my debut for Newcastle but ultimately it was a disappointing result, as I thought we should have won.

"It's much quicker and the players you are up against are much more physical and stronger than me.

"I've got to push on now and make sure that I improve physically so I can match them when I get another opportunity."

Roberts has seen the likes of Adam Armstrong and Rolando Aarons, who were both playing alongside him at United's Academy last season, become regualrs in the first team squad during the 2014/15 campaign.

And he is using them as inspiration that age is no barrier to what can be achieved at St. James' Park.

"If you're good enough, you will get an opportunity here - it doesn't matter how young you are," said Roberts.

"I look at people like Arma and Rolando, who have broken through into the team this season. They have been given a chance and really done well. I want that to be me as well."