Academy. Wiggett wanting win against West Brom

wiggett-u21s-v-wbrom
Published
05 Mar 23

Newcastle United Under-21s host West Bromwich Albion's second-string in the Premier League 2 on Monday afternoon (kick-off 3pm GMT), with Charlie Wiggett intent on securing maximum points.

United's second-string take on their Baggies counterparts at the Magpies' Little Benton Academy, aiming to keep their Division Two play-off hopes alive with a positive result.

With five fixtures remaining for Newcastle's youngsters, Wiggett - who joined United's Academy from Chelsea in the summer of 2021 - is relishing the encounter as the squad aim to claim a first victory in seven league matches.

The 20-year-old centre-back told nufc.co.uk: "It's one of the most important games in our season so far, looking at the league table. We're still pushing for the play-off positions and it's a game we're definitely looking forward to.

"We're in a good place as a team at the minute and have been adapting well to how we play individually and as a team. It's a massive game for the team.

"We're putting in a lot of work on and off the pitch which is helping us all to be the best we can be. The results aren't going to come straight away but, the way we are currently playing, we are definitely improving. The next step is getting three points."

Newcastle's under-21 side were held to a 2-2 draw away at Stoke City last week, with Wiggett opening the scoring in Staffordshire with his first goal of the current campaign before Ben Parkinson's stoppage-time equaliser secured a point for the visitors.

The Reading-born defender felt his side were unfortunate not to record maximum points against the Potters after an encouraging display but believes it can provide a platform for a strong end to the season.

He added: "I thought we showed great fight and spirit from the team, going from people who started the game to those who came on as substitutes. It was a great team performance and showed good morale to get that result.

"It was probably our best performance of the season so far but it was one of those games where you have so many chances and they had two or three shots on target. That's the way football can go but it's a good stepping stone for us going from there for us to push on for the rest of the season.

"I'm used to scoring headers or tap-ins! It was a good feeling to score the opener and put the team ahead. I was delighted to score my first goal of the season and I hope to grab a couple more before the season ends."

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