The 20-year-old, who was released by the Magpies at the end of last season, has linked up with Tony Pulis’ Teessiders, signing a one-year deal at the Riverside.

Ward arrived at St. James’ Park as a 17-year-old, featuring for the club’s under-18s before becoming a fixture in the under-23s set-up.

He made 13 apperaances for the Magpies’ second string last term, scoring twice.

Meanwhile, fellow former United man Craig Spooner has joined Northern League Division One outfit North Shields.

Full back Spooner will feature for the Robins this coming season along with another ex-Newcastle youngster, Kieron Aplin, who also left United earlier this summer.

And goalkeeper Brendan Pearson has joined ambitious Evo-Stik Premier League side South Shields following a successful trial.