Sterry 'happy' to be back in competitive action

Both of Newcastle's goals came in the opening seven minutes of the Premier League 2 clash, with forward Tyrique Bartlett breaking the deadlock after 40 seconds against the Division Two leaders before Sterry almost continued his goalscoring form after netting against Leeds United and Reading in the Premier League Cup.

The right-back, who recently returned from a loan spell at Crewe Alexandra, was unable to connect with Oliver Walters' teasing low cross to grab his third consecutive goal but was fortunate as Wolves' Cam John was placed behind the 23-year-old, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.

Sterry told nufc.co.uk: "We knew it was going to be a tough game playing against the league leaders but I thought the lads did really well, especially in the first half. 

"We come out very fast with great energy and getting the early goal made it a lot easier for the team.

"We needed to go out quick as they are a good team. If we went behind, it could have been a different scenario but getting the two goals early on made it much comfortable for the team. 

"I'm so happy to be back and I feel I can help the lads with a bit of experience I've had with the first team as well as going out on loan.

"As a back five, like the first team, I thought we defended very well. In the second half, it was a tough battle, especially when they went more direct in bringing on a couple of bigger lads. 

"I was playing in a defensive and attacking role as a wing back and you don't lose matches if you keep clean sheets. It was great to see Tyrique score as he has worked really hard after being out for a while with a bad injury. He's one of the hardest workers in the gym and it is great to see him back playing."

Sterry revealed his irritation in being unable to feature regularly for Crewe during his brief spell at the League Two club. 

However, the 23-year-old is keen to look forward with United's second string, aiming to gain more competitive matches under his belt whilst targeting success in Premier League 2 and the Premier League Cup.

"It's one of the worst things," Sterry added. "Obviously, injuries have been tough and it's very frustrating when you aren't playing even when you are fit and you have worked so hard every single day to get back to full fitness. 

"I've missed out on a lot of football this season and a lot of the younger lads have probably played more games than me. However, I believe I'm good enough and it's just about getting the opportunity to keep playing.

"It's been a tough time but now I'm here and we are playing perfectly well as a team. Hopefully that can continue and we can get promoted along with having a good run in the cup."