Newcastle United academy goalkeeper Tyler Jones has returned from a second loan spell at Northern Premier League side Dunston UTS with a glowing assessment from manager Jon McDonald, who believes the 18-year-old has the attributes to go far in the game.
Jones, who is from Durham, first gained senior experience during a short loan stint with Dunston's East Division rivals Ashington early last season before impressing at the UTS Stadium in the second half of the campaign. Newcastle authorised another loan with Dunston last month, and Jones helped Jon McDonald's side win all six games he started, moving them firmly into contention for a first-ever promotion to the third tier of non-league football.
Final Loan Game and Recall
The final match of Jones' latest spell came last weekend, when he produced a solid display in a 3-1 victory at Ossett United, extending Dunston's run to ten consecutive league wins. Newcastle recalled Jones earlier this week, and he will now hope to break into Robbie Stockdale's Under-21s setup during a busy period of the season.
Speaking after the youngster returned to the Magpies, McDonald highlighted the development Jones has shown on and off the field across both spells at the club.
Manager's Verdict on Jones
McDonald told Chronicle Live: "Tyler has been outstanding for us and I have seen real growth in him across both loan spells at the club."
"He was absolutely outstanding for us last season - but he has come in this season and physically and mentally he looks more assured and mature. All of the lads and everyone at the club loves him and he just fits in so easily with the squad," he added.
"I honestly can't speak highly enough of what he brings as a first goalkeeper - but more importantly, as a person. He's a student of the game, he understands the game and despite being full-time at Newcastle, he is humble and he is very mature for someone that is only 18."
Competition in Newcastle's Academy
Newcastle are well-stocked in goalkeeping talent within their academy, with England youth internationals Roman Dowell and George Mair competing for the number one spot at Under-18s and Under-21s level. Aidan Harris, who was involved in United's Champions League squad in recent seasons, is currently impressing on loan at National League North club Hebburn Town, while the club has high hopes for 15-year-old Lucas Flack, who joined from Leyton Orient last year.
With competition for places growing, McDonald believes the mentality Jones showed at Dunston will serve him well on his return to the Magpies youth ranks. He said: "We know Newcastle are very strong when it comes to goalkeepers within the academy and we know it's a really competitive environment. But, for me, he has the physical attributes and the mental attributes to go far."
"He has a really calm and assured mentality that I think can take him really far in the game."
