Steve Bruce explains decision to add these two Newcastle United players to his matchday squad

The 19-year-old midfielder was on the bench for the 5-0 midweek defeat to Manchester City along with forward Tom Allan, who made his senior debut earlier this season.

Young and Allan were among the Academy players called up to train with Steve Bruce’s first-team squad ahead of the Premier League’s restart last month.

Bruce, United’s head coach, turned to Young and 20-year-old Allan after losing a number of players to injuries.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League game against Waford at Vicarage Road, Bruce said: “Look, we’re always looking to try and bring anybody through from the Academy if they’re good enough. If we hadn’t had the two lads on the bench, we wouldn’t have fulfilled the bench. They’ve trained with us, and will have enjoyed the last few weeks. It’s great for their education – and the next step on the ladder.”