Newcastle United have brought Gambian youngsters Omar Marong and Alieu Saine to Tyneside for a month-long trial, as the club looks to strengthen its Academy scouting system.
The duo, who play for TMT Academy in Gambia, arrived in England this month. Marong captains the Gambia Under-17s, while winger Saine impressed during the WAFU A U-17 Tournament win, a competition watched by the Magpies.
Month-Long Trial Arranged
According to a report by Gambian journalist Ebrima KB Sonko, the pair left Banjul International Airport for England to undergo a month-long trial with the Premier League side. The opportunity was arranged through Beyond Borders Agency, with the players set to showcase their talents during their stay.
The trial is described as an important step in the football development of the two TMT talents, giving them the chance to perform on a bigger stage.
Scouting Focus on Africa
The arrivals follow a Chronicle Live report last month revealing Newcastle's focus on bringing talent from Africa to the club. A new role of Scouting Analyst (Africa) has attracted a number of applicants, as sporting director Ross Wilson looks to enhance the recruitment department.
The job advert states the analyst will "scout and analyse prospective players across multiple levels of African football, primarily through video," and research African football markets, competitions, academies and player pathways, with occasional live matches and travel as required.
Past African Stars at Newcastle
Newcastle have previously had African players including Papiss Cisse, Obafemi Martins, Lomana LuaLua, Demba Ba, Christian Atsu and Cheick Tiote. The club is now seeking untapped talent as it expands its scouting capabilities.
In August, Wilson outlined his vision for the club's sporting model, saying: "I had a clear idea, identity-wise, what I wanted Newcastle to look like, which was absolutely shared (by) ownership. The key for us was getting to the end of the window really feeling that identity."
He added: "We're not patting ourselves on the back, but we have to move forwards bravely and strongly. There's still lots of work to be done to get the whole club where we want to get it to."
