OPINION
To say that Newcastle United have struggled to bring home grown talent through their youth ranks and into their senior side is a massive understatement – and an issue which Rafael Benitez would love to sort out.
The Magpies’ only senior star who is a graduate of the youth system is Paul Dummett, who has been a regular in the starting XI but also the last man to make the step up at St James’ Park, although Freddie Woodman could be following in his footsteps soon.
Whether the quality of coaching has been sub-par or the club just have not had the best pick of youth talents at a much younger age is a debate to be had but the problem looks like it will continue to manifest itself for a couple years longer.
One man who was tipped to make the grade was Adam Armstrong, the young striker, now 21, with 21 appearances for the first team under his belt.
However, the bright talent is facing a make or break summer after his mixed-bag of a campaign, and if Benitez has been following his progress, he is much more likely to break it than make it.
A loan to Bolton did not do much good for his confidence but he finally found his feet – albeit a league lower and with Blackburn Rovers, scoring nine goals in 21 appearances.
Now, after being officially named among the England under-21 for this summer’s Toulon Tournament, a competition the Three Lions are heading into as reigning champions, Armstrong could be facing his final shot at convincing Benitez he is worthy of a spot in the senior side.
The tournament lasts until the 9th June, meaning he has just under three weeks to save his Newcastle career, for it looks as though it could be curtains for the youngster, and another youth prospect discarded along the way.