England under-18 international Neave was an unused substitute in last month's FA Cup win at Birmingham City, but has yet to make his senior bow.

He scored less than two minutes into his Premier League 2 debut against Leeds United's under-21s in November last year, having netted 13 goals across all competitions for the Magpies' under-18 side last term.

The former Thorp Academy pupil and Wallsend Boys Club junior made his second-string debut in an EFL Trophy clash against League Two Crewe Alexandra in November 2023 and has seven goals in nine appearances at Academy level this season, as well as three in three Premier League 2 outings.

Born on May 27th, 2007 - when Umbrella by Rhianna was number one in the charts - 6ft Neave penned his first professional contract last summer.

"Ever since I was young, it's been my dream to play for Newcastle United so to sign a professional deal here is surreal," he told newcastleunited.com at the time.

"I was really pleased to make my debut for the under-21s as it means next year, I can push on and try to make a few more appearances and hopefully score a few goals. Making my international debut was a really proud moment for me and my family. Playing for your country is one of the biggest things in football and I'm hoping that, next season, I can gain more appearances for England.

"I'm more than happy about my goals this season at under-18 level and I was really pleased to be the top goalscorer at the club. I'm hoping I can push on, score a few more next season and be up there with the top goalscorers in the league."

But even Neave probably hadn't expected to be on the cusp of a first team bow tonight. He has been given the number 78 and, as well as making the bench at Birmingham, has trained with Eddie Howe's side on occasions during the current campaign, impressing enough to earn his first Premier League call-up tonight.