‘Brutally honest’ Newcastle youngster itching for more first team exposure after unseen Everton call

Newcastle United defender Henry Johnson has stated he is eager for more first-team opportunities after travelling with the squad to Everton in the Carabao Cup. The 18-year-old featured in Newcastle Under-21s' recent 1-0 EFL Trophy victory over Rotherham United, which sent Robbie Stockdale's side into the knockout stages.

First-team head coach Matthias Jaissle and his assistant Engin Yanova have maintained a close presence monitoring the academy players this season. Johnson, who can operate at right-back and centre-back, emphasized that regular visits from the senior coaching staff provide extra motivation to impress.