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McClaren Hails 'Grown Up' Alex
Written by Newcastle Utd
Steve McClaren believes Alex Gilliead's loan spell at Carlisle has turned the winger into a man
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Steve McClaren believes Alex Gilliead's loan spell at Carlisle United has turned the teenage winger into a man.
The England Under-20 international has signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract at St. James' Park, reward for his eye-catching performances with the Cumbrians, where he has been on loan since September.
And McClaren praised Gilliead for having the courage to head out on loan and hold his own in League Two at the tender age of 19.
"Alex is a tricky wide player, someone who is very direct and is doing very well at Carlisle United," said the Magpies' head coach.
"He has chosen the right career path by going on loan, impressing and earning a new contract. He is a player with a good future.
"Loan spells like Alex's are important. You can play under-21s football and train all day, but to go to a Football League side, like Carlisle, you have to be a man.
"If you're not a man then you have to stand up and grow up very quickly.
"It is tough and an eye-opener but Alex has gone there and is becoming a much better player for the experience."