Thompson targeting maximum points against Stoke

The young Magpies take on their Potters counterparts at Whitley Park in their opening home fixture of the 2022/23 campaign after kicking off their Division Two campaign last week with an agonising 2-1 defeat away at West Bromwich Albion.

Conceding twice in the final minutes of the league clash in Staffordshire, Thompson - who signed his first professional contract with his boyhood club in December 2021 - can use the difficult defeat to their advantage ahead of their upcoming fixture.

The 18-year-old, who has represented England at under-18 level, told nufc.co.uk: "All of the lads are looking forward to the first home game of the season. We'll try to push on a show for the home fans and get three points.

"We were a bit devastated after the game against West Brom last week. We had a big chance to get all three points but this time is a chance to get our first points on the board and hopefully three of them against Stoke.

"Losing the game so late on against West Brom was very disappointing so we're very determined to try and bounce back. It was a huge blow for everyone and it gives you more grit and determination to make amends and get three points to get ourselves further up the league table.

"We had a slightly slow start which we'll aim to fix up on this week but, as the game progressed, we started getting into it and controlled the match more.

"We need to make sure we do that from the start against Stoke and if we can manage that, we should be in for a good game."

Newcastle United welcomed the arrival of Scottish goalkeeper Jude Smith following the 19-year-old's transfer from East Fife on Friday, with the young shot-stopper to link up with the Magpies' second-string.

Thompson admitted Smith's introduction will only provide healthy competition between the pair as they compete for the number one role at under-21 level.

"It's always going to be a challenge when a new goalkeeper comes in," Thompson added. "Jude's trained with us for a few weeks now and is a really good 'keeper.

"It's going to put pressure on myself to try and perform for the number one shirt and hopefully it will push me on further to improve myself as a player.

"Not only will we be pushing for the number one jersey but pushing each other as the standards get raised. Hopefully, that will push us further for our careers and not just this season."

Admission for Monday's Premier League 2 fixture is free for season ticket holders, otherwise it's £3 for adults and £1 concessions.