Alan Shearer's message to 17-year-old South Shields star Will Jenkins after stunning debut goal

The Mariners faced Radcliffe in the Northern Premier League, winning 3-0 to cement their position as league leaders.

And 17-year-old Will Jenkins, handed a first league start by joint managers Graham Fenton and Lee Picton, broke the deadlock with a delightful lob from 25 yards out on the left flank with just 32 minutes on the clock.

Footage of the stunning goal emerged online which prompted ex-Newcastle legend Shearer to quote-tweet the video with the applause emoji as a sign of his praise for the youngster.

Geoff Thompson, chairman of South Shields, then also revealed the brilliant message of encouragement the former Premier League winner and England captain had sent privately.

Thompson tweeted: “Great to see this type of recognition. Thanks Alan.”

“Alan did message privately to say.… ‘Send him my congratulations and best for the future and next time he scores I want to see a proper celebration.’”

Mariners fans were quick to react to the quality of the goal on social media too, Ian Gallagher adding, “Brilliant, the sign of an intelligent player,” whilst Brian Rutherford said, “Gerrin there young Will. Ha’way you Mighty Mariners.”

It good day turned into a great day when Robert Briggs bagged South Shields’ second goal from the penalty spot, then adding a second spot-kick after a handball by Rick Smith, who was sent off for a second booking.