Tom Heardman has impressed in the Newcastle Under-23s so should he be given a chance in the first team?
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Newcastle United are currently preparing for life back in the Premier League as manager Rafael Benitez starts the summer recruitment process in earnest.
At least one new striker is certainly needed, with the Mirror reporting Aleksandar Mitrovic is likely to be sold to Turkey and 34-year-old Daryl Murphy possibly not up to the task.
Newcastle United’s Aleksandar Mitrovic reacts
Dwight Gayle did score 23 Championship goals in 2016/17 as the Magpies won the title, but the 26-year-old will need competition and Sky Sports reports that Chelsea youngster Tammy Abraham is on the verge of joining on a season-long loan.
Yet still more forwards are being linked with the club – with the Chronicle naming Michy Batshuayi – but rather than looking for expensive options elsewhere, could Newcastle instead give a homegrown talent a chance?
Currently part of Peter Beardsley’s Under-23s squad at St James’ Park, Geordie Tom Heardman has recently signed a new contract with the club.
Newcastle United XI manager Peter Beardsley
Heardman scored six goals in 13 matches in the Premier League 2 division last term and Beardsley is a great admirer of the youngster.
“He wants to be the club’s number nine,” the former England international told the Chronicle.
“To be fair he does some brilliant things. You can see the crowd’s reaction to him and he gets applause. It’s really pleasing.
“He’s my type of character in terms of technique. He has a lot of attributes that people like to see.”
Heardman was on the cusp of the first team under Steve McClaren two years ago, before injury set him back. Now aged 21 and back to full fitness, should Benitez consider giving the forward a shot?
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez
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