Shahar lauds young Magpies' comeback in seven-goal thriller | OneFootball

The young Magpies fell behind in the opening stages of their Group D clash at the Gateshead International Stadium through Kain Adom's long-range effort and, despite Sean Neave's swift equaliser, United's youngsters trailed at the break following Harry Chapman's back-heeled finish before Callum Bone doubled the hosts' lead shortly after the restart.

Newcastle's second-string, however, completed a spirited fightback as Kyle Fitzgerald halved the deficit, the Irish winger's first goal at under-21 level, before Kenton Richardson's own goal and Cathal Heffernan's 90th minute header sealed a terrific turnaround in their opening fixture of the 2025/26 campaign.

Shahar, who grabbed two assists against the Heed, told newcastleunited.com: "It was a good game. We came into it after not many pre-season friendlies and we saw that in the first-half and conceded early on in the second-half but we did well to get back into the game and the lads deserved to win.

"I'm very happy to get two assists. It's something I've been working on for the past year and how I can develop my game into an attacking full-back, not just a defensive one, and I'm always happy to get assists.

"It's always good to get momentum in the first game of our season, heading onto our first Premier League 2 game now, and to come from 3-1 down and win is a big thing for us.

"I think with the team we have, we have a big chance of going far (in the compeition). We did that last season with a similar squad but I feel we have strengthened and believe we can go on a good run."

The teenage right-back, who signed his first professional contract with United in May 2024, also made his first-team debut for Eddie Howe's side during last weekend's Sela Cup clash against Atlético Madrid at St. James' Park.

The 18-year-old, who has captained England at under-18 level, expressed his delight in making his senior bow and relished his late appearance against the La Liga outfit in front of over 51,500 home supporters.

He added: "It was a really good experience, playing in front of the big crowd and getting a few minutes which I was very happy about," he reflected.

"I didn't feel like I was going to come on but I got the call and I had to strip quickly, put on my shirt and get on the pitch. It all happened in an instance so I had to go on and prepare for what I've done in the past.

"Playing at St. James' Park made the moment more special. The level of players that were on the pitch at the time, such as (Antoine) Griezmann, was good to be part of.

"I love the involvement with the first-team so much. Being around it is massive for me and it's always good to be a part of the team with how well they've done."

Newcastle United Under-21s are back in action on Sunday afternoon as they kick off their Premier League 2 campaign with a home clash against Southampton at Whitley Park (kick-off 3pm BST).