Newcastle summer signing has already wowed with 'good…

Newcastle summer signing has already wowed with 'good potential' but still has a 'lot to learn'

Newcastle United summer signing Jude Smith has already wowed coaches in training but still has 'got a lot to learn', according to under-21s boss Elliot Dickman. The former East Fife goalkeeper was one of four academy recruits to arrive in the summer, and the teenager has made an immediate impression after agreeing a two-year deal at St James' Park.

Smith was called up for a first-team training session by Eddie Howe just five days after sealing his Premier League move. An injury for fellow goalkeeper Max Thompson then opened the door for the teenager to make his first start for the U21s in a heavy defeat at Norwich City last month.

The young Magpies opened the campaign with three straight defeats, but have since improved and are unbeaten in their last three fixtures including an EFL Trophy draw at Doncaster Rovers. Smith has kept two clean sheets during this run, and Dickman admits the 19-year-old has already excited academy coaching staff during his first month at the club.

Dickman told ChronicleLive: "From day one, when he entered the building he's been really good. There's been lots of stuff in training where we're thinking wow, we've got some good potential here.

"The games he's played in, the first was Norwich away he was thrown in the deep end to an extent, and even in that game he kept the score down. The other games he's played, he's done terrific.

"He's come in and hit the ground running, but there's still lots for him to learn. He hasn't been here long in terms of how we want to play and what we want to do, and I think he's getting there which is a credit to him and all of the staff who are around him."

The young Magpies followed up their goalless draw at Doncaster with a hard-fought home win over Nottingham Forest U21s on Friday night. Josh Scott netted both goals in the 2-1 victory, but it was a busy night for Smith as the visitors were unable to capitalise on a host of chances.

Dickman added: "I thought he was very good. He's ultimately kept us in the game, the saves he made were terrific. I think his all-round goalkeeping display tonight was really good.

"He brings a composure to the group and the team, but he's still got a lot to learn. There's still bits in there, his decision-making on when to play short or play a little bit longer, things like that. But he hasn't been in the building long, and I'm really pleased for him that he put in a performance that helped us win the game."

Newcastle summer signing has already wowed with 'good potential' but still has a 'lot to learn'

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