Newcastle United’s 21-year-old winger Callum Roberts is in line for a shot at the first team against Blackburn Rovers having been included in the senior side for the FA Cup clash, according to reliable journalist Lee Ryder.
The Chronicle’s chief Magpies reporter claims on his personal Twitter account that the versatile forward, who can play on either wing or in an attacking midfield role, could be handed the chance to take on Rovers at Ewood Park, Tuesday’s clash a replay after a 1-1 draw at James’ Park.
Cal Roberts is in the squad for #nufc FA Cup replay vs Blackburn.
— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) January 14, 2019
Roberts only has one other first team appearance to his name, coming on as a substitute against Leicester City in the FA Cup four years ago, while he also has an unused substitute outing to his name in a League Cup clash versus Tottenham.
Opinion
Roberts’ future at St James’ Park looked to be dead and buried having been playing with the under-23 side on a regular basis this season, the likes of Sean Longstaff managing to force their way into the plans of manager Benitez. While the 21-year-old might see this as a chance to reignite his career on Tyneside and become a fringe figure for the Spaniard, it more shows just how little of a priority the FA Cup is to the boss and Roberts is unlikely to be the only young talent who is given his chance to wear the black and white stripes for the first team on Tuesday night. Newcastle fans would love to see their side make it through to the next round but after what they saw when Blackburn visited last week will not be too hopeful of seeing that happen. The inclusion of Roberts will not help their hopes one bit – although maybe he can become a cup hero with an inspired performance against the Champiosnhip outfit.