'It's been tough for him': Newcastle coach makes admission regarding 18-year-old January signing

Newcastle United under-21's head coach Ben Dawson admitted that newest signing Alfie Harrison has had a "tough start" to life at Newcastle.

Harrison joined the Magpies in January from Manchester City after impressing in the opening period of the season where he scored eight and assisted four in eight games for the Sky Blues under-18s side.

Since joining, Harrison has found himself playing for Newcastle's under-21s side where he has assisted three goals in 10 appearances.

Harrison has also caught the eye of Toon boss Eddie Howe, the 18-year-old has previously been pictured in first team training.

It has taken Harrison time to grow - Dawson

On Harrison, Dawson said: "It's taken him a little bit of time (to gel into the squad), we would have liked to have had him around the under-18s group a little bit longer but circumstances dictate that he wasn't and he's around our group.

"It's been tough for him, he will probably tell you that himself. It's been a real stretch and challenge for him as much as he has come from Man City the jump up to the under-21s is big and it's getting bigger.

"But he's coping well, we hope that next year in the under-21s group again he continues to make the steps forward then we'll see where he gets to."

Dawson pleased with his squad

Reflecting on the season, Dawson said: "(There have been) plenty of ups and downs. I think we've played over 40 games this season, we've played in the UEFA Youth League and supported the first team when needed.

"It's been a big test for everybody, staff and players. I go back to players making Premier League debuts and making the bench in the Champions League. Lads going on loan and coming back.

"We can be really pleased with all those successes."