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Proud Kemen Is Keen For More
Written by Newcastle Utd
Olivier Kemen spoke to nufc.co.uk after being named on the substitutes' bench for the first time
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Olivier Kemen believes being part of the first team squad can only aid his development - and now the teenage midfielder has targeted a debut before the end of the season.
The French youngster, who has been on Tyneside since the summer of 2013, was named on the substitutes' bench for the first time as Newcastle faced Arsenal on Saturday.
It was just reward for some impressive performances at under-21 level this term from Kemen, who had previously been part of a couple of matchday squads without making the final cut.
And although he didn't get any playing time against the Gunners, the 18-year-old described it as a "big step" and has vowed to learn from every minute he spends in the company of more experienced colleagues.
"I am very proud because it is a big step for me," Kemen told nufc.co.uk before heading off on international duty with France under-19s.
"It's a big emotional thing. I have been waiting for this for a long time and I am so happy because my hard work has paid off. People kept saying to me 'keep working, keep working' and now it has paid off.
"I'm obviously gutted about the result against Arsenal but for me, I am happy to hit this level.
"It is great experience to be on the bench and in the changing room because it allows me to see how the players play, their determination and their preparation.
"You learn more when you see it so close, so it is better for my development, and I will learn plenty from players like Moussa and Gouff.
"I watch, I learn, I keep quiet - and when it is my turn, I will know what I should be doing.
"I came to Newcastle to be the best footballer I can be
"I have hit the bench, and now I want to get on. I would love to make my debut before the end of the season.
"Whether that happens or not, we will have to wait and see, but this is great experience for me."