Latest News
Barrett 'buzzing' for Allan after memorable cup debut
Ryan Barrett was thrilled for fellow Academy product Tom Allan after the Newcastle-born youngster made his first team debut in United's Emirates FA Cup victory against Rochdale.
Barrett was among the 29,786 supporters at St. James' Park last night for United's 4-1 win against the League One outfit and witnessed his friend achieve a footballing dream of playing for his boyhood club, who also provided an assist for the Magpies' fourth goal, scored by Joelinton.
The second-half substitute played as a right wing back during the third round replay and Barrett, who plays a right-sided full back himself, admitted his teammate's involvement at senior level is highly motivating as the defender aims to follow in similar footsteps.
"We were all buzzing for him," Barrett told nufc.co.uk. "We knew Tom might get a chance with him being on the bench. We hoped he could come on and he did so we're all pleased for him and I'm over the moon for him!
"We have been close for the past three years, especially when we were scholars, so it was weird seeing him coming on at first but he settled in well and obviously made the goal for Joelinton so it's brilliant for him!
"I know I've just come back from an injury but I'm working hard and, overall, that's my goal too to try and get up there. Watching Tom (Allan) makes me feel if he has stepped up then hopefully I can get that chance too."
Newcastle United under-23s host their Hull City counterparts on Friday night (kick-off 1pm GMT) as the young Magpies look to take a step closer towards qualifying for the knockout stages of the Premier League Cup.
Barrett, who has represented Wales at under-17 level, is enjoying his football again after returning from a second knee injury in as many seasons and the teenager is targeting another strong run in the competition after Newcastle's youngsters reached the Premier League Cup final last term.
"It's a really important game for us," the 18-year-old added. "We've had a few good performances recently and I think we were quite unlucky against Man United. We're full of momentum at the moment, playing well and we'll look to go after the win on Friday.
"Hopefully, it will come together and we can get a strong result to progress into the knockout stages. We beat Hull last time but we know that they will give it a good go so we must be careful and ready for them.
"We went far in the competition last year and we're really trying to kick on now. We've had a good start to the new year so we're all ready, focussed and working hard in training, which is showing in games. Let's hope we can go just as far as we can.
"I had an MCL injury in my knee last season and then it was the same injury again (this season). It was really frustrating trying to get fit, which was the hardest. I was trying to get back into it and then it would be hurting again.
"I've had a good run of games lately and I think I've been playing well so, personally, it's been really good for me and I'm looking forward to playing on Friday."