Adam Armstrong opens up about his return to Newcastle '“ and his aim for next season

The forward netted 20 goals for Coventry City during a season-loan long at the League One club.

There were calls from fans for Armstrong to be recalled given his success at the Ricoh Arena, though Rafa Benitez and Steve McClaren felt he would be better staying at Coventry for the entire campaign.

Armstrong, voted “Superstar of the Future” by BBC Match of the Day Magazine readers, was back on Tyneside this week ahead of the relegation club’s final Premier League game of the season against Tottenham Hotspur at St James’s Park on Sunday.

The 19-year-old hopes to be running out at the stadium himself next season.

“Obviously, being a Newcastle lad I want to try and get in the first team,” said Armstrong, who is going to the summer’s European Under-19 Championships with England.

“If you ask any footballer, they want to work hard in pre-season to try and get in the team.

“If that doesn’t work out, then loan is probably going to be the option again.

“I’m just going to wait and see, train hard and see what happens.

“I’ll be going back to Newcastle for pre-season, and will see how that goes.

“I’m also going away with England Under-19s in July for the Euros, that’ll be good – hopefully we can win it again!”

Armstrong is still hopeful United will be in the Premier League next season, though a win for Sunderland in either of their final two games would relegate the club.

“Hopefully, they can still beat relegation – I hope so,” said Armstrong.

“I’ll be coming back for the final day.”

Armstrong believes being sent to Coventry has hastened his development.

Asked what areas of his game have improved, he said: “I think just my confidence and my all-round game.

“I think I won’t be scared to try stuff now when I go back to Newcastle.

“Being such a young lad, I think I’m more confident on and off the pitch. It’s been a good experience.”

* The latest issue of Match of the Day Magazine, featuring Adam Armstrong, is on sale now. Also, log on to motdmag.com.