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Turner hails Ameobi influence after completing Magpies move
Young goalkeeper Jake Turner says former Newcastle United winger Sammy Ameobi helped persuade him to make the switch to St. James’ Park.
The 20-year-old linked up with United this week along with fellow youngster Kyle Scott, and could make his bow for the under-23s in Monday’s pre-season friendly at Rotherham United (2pm kick-off).
Former Bolton Wanderers stopper Turner played alongside Ameobi during their time at the University of Bolton stadium, and revealed the wideman – now at Nottingham Forest – spoke highly of his old club and made his decision an easy one.
“I’ve watched the Premier League and seen them playing, and I spoke to Sammy Ameobi who used to be here when he was a bit younger,” he told nufc.co.uk. “He was saying that it’s a great club, and all the staff are great. Just from that experience, I couldn’t wait to get here once I heard about it.
“Sammy’s a good lad and I trust his opinion – he loved his time here. I can’t wait to get started.”
Last season, Turner – who has been capped by England at under-18 and under-19 level – spent time out on loan at Stalybridge Celtic and Darlington.
He believes the temporary stints helped develop him as both a player and a person, as he adjusted to the different demands in non-league.
“The loan spells have helped me, with the experience they have given me,” he said.
“I feel like I’ve matured, playing with the older pros – I’ve matured as a person and on the pitch. I’ve learned things – obviously it’s more physical when you drop a few leagues. It was a massive learning curve.”
Turner returned to the Trotters and took his place on the bench for their final Championship game of the season, having also regularly featured in Wanderers’ matchday squads since the 2016/17 campaign.
And now the youngster is relishing the prospect of progressing with the Magpies, where fellow young stoppers Freddie Woodman and Nathan Harker have made the first team squad in recent seasons.
“I was on the bench a bit last year and the year before, so coming to a club where they are bringing younger goalkeepers and players through is great,” he said.
“I can’t wait to see what happens.”