Aarons Pens Professional Deal

By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor

Rolando Aarons has become the latest Newcastle United youngster to sign a professional contract with the Club.

Last month, Adam Armstrong, Lubo Satka and Freddie Woodman put pen to paper after progressing from the Little Benton Academy.

And now 18-year-old winger Aarons, who joined the Magpies from Bristol City two years ago, has followed suit.

He was part of the first-team squad for the Barclays Premier League game at Fulham in the middle of March and has scored three goals in his last four second-string appearances.

"I'm buzzing - it's a special moment for me," the Jamaica-born teenager told nufc.co.uk.

"This is where it starts and I need to get my head down; the hard work starts now.

"I feel like I'm stronger, faster and fitter and I've benefited from the work I've been doing with the fitness coaches here.

"It seems as though the gaffer is really interested in bringing young players through so it gives you hope that you'll get a chance if you keep doing well."

Football Development Manager Peter Beardsley added: "Rolando's had a brilliant month.

"He's always had ability but he's shown great character in the last month and we're delighted that he's agreed to sign this contract.

"He has a lot of talent and now he's adding the work rate to it. He has a bright future and it's good news for us going forward.

"The owner is all for youngsters doing well and what he's doing at this football club at youth level is incredible, I genuinely mean that. Long term, it will be brilliant."