Blue Moon Harrison: Alfie relishing PL2 finale against former club | OneFootball

The young Magpies face their Citizens counterparts, who currently occupy top spot in the 26-team division, at the City Football Academy (kick-off 7pm BST) and head into the league clash after qualifying for the play-offs on Monday following a 7-1 win against Reading at St. James' Park.

Harrison, who joined the Magpies from Man City in February 2024, was delighted to seal qualification with a game to spare and remains optimistic United's youngsters can still secure a top-eight finish to ensure a home tie in the Round of 16.

The Keighley-born attacking midfielder told newcastleunited.com: "It was good to qualify for the play-offs as it gives us a chance to get more games which is what everybody wants and a better opportunity to try and win the competition.

"For us, it's a chance to finish as high as possible. It's against a tough opposition and it's a massive game for them because if they win, they finish top of the league so we'll have to do everything in our power to try and win.

"We've been working day in, day out and Diarmuid (O'Carroll) helped us to try and put things right as a team, playing good football and creating more chances.

"There have been a few games we could've done better in but we've played really well in our last four matches and managed to pick up four wins."

Harrison has recorded nine goal involvements in his last nine Premier League 2 matches, including six assists, and recorded a goal and assist in the young Magpies' 7-1 thrashing of the Royals.

The 19-year-old, who made his first senior start in August's Sela Cup victory against Stade Brestois at St. James' Park, has been pleased with his purple patch in front of goal but is determined to add to his tally for the remainder of the season.

"It was nice to get another assist so I can get to the top of the list and, hopefully, stay there by getting even more," Harrison added. "I can't think about it too much, though, and I need to keep playing my game.

"It was a top win against Reading. We didn't start off the greatest but we finished off in the right way. It was great to score my first goal at the stadium as well as an assist and have a good game. It was a good day all-round.

"In the final third aspect, we did everything we could but it was certain bits at the start which could've been improved and playing better as a team.

"It was a different role I was doing but I was still coming into play as a midfielder on the right wing. It's always nice to get a goal or assist as that is one big part of my game, creating.

"Since Christmas, I've been playing more and I always back my ability when I play and try to play to the best of it."