Academy. "We'll give it our all" - Wiggett on Papa John's Trophy trip

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Published
04 Oct 21

Charlie Wiggett believes Newcastle United Under-21s have an "aura of confidence" heading into Tuesday's Papa John's Trophy clash against Harrogate Town (kick-off 7.45pm BST).

The young Magpies take on the League Two outfit at the EnviroVent Stadium in their Northern Group H clash, requiring a win to maintain their hopes of progressing into the knockout stages.

United's second-string suffered a 3-0 defeat against Sheffield Wednesday in their opening group fixture but Wiggett, who joined the Magpies' youth set-up from Chelsea in July, is relishing the challenge against the Sulphurites, who currently sit in second place of the English fourth tier.

The Reading-born defender told nufc.co.uk: "They are doing well but these games are very important for us and ones we look forward to. They are a first-team side and that's where we want to be, putting ourselves up against tougher and more aggressive opponents. We'll give it our all and hopefully get a strong result from the game.

"My first game for Newcastle was against Harrogate (a 2-1 defeat in July). It was the first game of pre-season with everyone getting back into the swing of things but we played well as a team and I feel we can get something from tomorrow's game.

"It's a great competition to be involved in, especially for myself being a centre-back coming up against big, strong strikers and being able to win aerial duels, one-versus-one situations and defending the box properly.

"It's a tournament that I think is very important for all of the under-21 sides."

Newcastle's youngsters ended a run of five competitive games without a win after registering an emphatic 4-1 win against their Middlesbrough counterparts on Friday night.

Wiggett, who opening the scoring against Boro in his first outing at St. James' Park, admitted the dominant victory over their North east neighbours has been a welcome boost for the group.

"I'd definitely say there's an aura of confidence around the team after a good result at St. James' Park on Friday night," the 18-year-old added. "It is a great place to play, where everyone wants to be, and there was a big motivation from that game.

"It was a convincing win on the back of a few defeats and it has brought the team back together, with a great morale in training.

"We had a number of positives to take away from the game, especially in the first-half. We kept the ball well and we were convincingly the better team. There are always things to improve on and analyse in training but it was a great feeling after the win against Middlesbrough.

"It was my first game at St. James'. The experience was great, playing at the stadium with the fans and my family there. To get on the scoresheet was one of the best feelings, it's hard to put into words. Hopefully, I can push on and get more goals this season."

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