The midfielder – who scored on his debut against Hartlepool United – struck in the eighth minute last night, doubling Newcastle's advantage, with Steven Taylor having opened the scoring.

Guthrie – signed from Liverpool last month – has struck once for loan club Bolton Wanderers last season.

And the 21-year-old – who cooly beat Andreas Isaksson after being set up by makeshift striker James Milner – says goalscoring is one area of his game he is keen to improve on.

Guthrie told the Gazette: "Scoring goals is something I'm looking to add to my game.

"At Bolton last year it was tough because they were struggling. There wasn't many chances, and we always seemed to be hanging on.

"Playing in a team where the level is higher, the boys find you when you're in space. They give you options on the ball, and it make it easier."

Guthrie has played in all of Newcastle's pre-season friendlies, and he is hoping to be in Kevin Keegan's starting XI on the opening weekend of the season away to Manchester United.

The Shrewsbury-born player added: "My aim is to be in the first XI and play every game. By having a good pre-season, that puts me up there with a chance."

Guthrie is hoping his versatility could be a strength, as he is able to play across the midfield.

"My best position is central midfield, but I can play on either side," added Guthrie. "I prefer to play in the middle, though."