Who is Niall Brookwell? Newcastle United's latest addition who earned glowing reviews from Liverpool legend

Here is everything you need to know about the 18-year-old, who has penned a two-year deal at St James’s Park and will go into the under-23s set-up.

What position does he play?

Brookwell is a versatile player who can play anywhere across the midfield or as a central defender.

However, recent reports suggest he is a lot more effective in a midfield role.

How did he fare at Liverpool?

Brookwell joined the Reds’ academy at under-9s level and has progressed up the development ladder and into the under-18s.

He was also coached by Steven Gerrard before the Liverpool legend became manager at Rangers.

In February, Brookwell scored a hat-trick in a 4-0 friendly win against Coaching Connexions – the midfielder's first game in four months having spent time on the sidelines with a knee injury.

In total, he made nine appearances in the U18s Premier League last season, scoring two goals and claiming three assists.

Interestingly, Brookwell was named in the Guardian’s Next Generation 2018: 20 of the best talents at Premier League clubs.

Who else did Newcastle beat to his signature?

As well as Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland, Burnley and Crystal Palace were also keeping tabs on the player.

Brookwell was keen on a move to Wearside as he felt there may have been a pathway through to first-team football with the club now in League One.

However, the stasis at Sunderland meant Newcastle leapfrogged the Black Cats to sign the Wigan-born player.

What’s been said about him?

Gerrard, who brought Brookwell into his under-18s squad aged just 15, told the Guardian: “I don't think the kid realises he's got it in abundance.

“His game is about fighting, competing, closing people down, will to win, passion and desire. I trust him.”

After bagging a goal and an assist during Liverpool under-18’s 4-3 win over rivals Manchester United in August last year, Brookwell was also named as a one to watch in an article from the Liverpool Echo.

"He has worked really hard and I was really pleased with the assist and his finish as well," said U18s coach Barry Lewtas.

"He has to get that into his game more, to break that line and get into the box more often."