Meet the in-form Newcastle United youngster who impressed in front of Hartlepool United officials versus Sunderland

Newcastle United fans absolutely love a goalscorer - even more so when it’s a local lad wearing the famous number nine on his back.

And in young forward Dylan Stephenson, the Magpies have somebody who is living up to that billing in the club’s current crop of under-23s.

The Blyth-born lad fired his 11th and 12th goals of the campaign in the 2-0 Tyne-Wear derby victory over Sunderland at Whitley Park on Monday night.

An excellent feat, perhaps even more impressive when you consider this is the 18-year-old’s debut season at reserve level.

He is reaping the rewards too having trained with Eddie Howe’s first-team in recent weeks.

‘Works hard every single day and is a genuine lad’

“I thought Dylan was terrific. Really pleased,” Newcastle under-23s boss Elliott Dickman said after Stephenson struck twice against the Black Cats.

“He’s somebody who does all the work for the team in the final third and to get his two goals is really good for him personally.

“(I’m) really delighted. He goes about his day-to-day business really well, works hard every single day and is a genuine lad. He gives his all when he plays, as you can see.”

Although he has a clear eye for goal, as his record evidently suggests, Stephenson is also effective in a wide position with his attributes including a quick change of pace.

His first goal against Sunderland was calm and composed.

His second, after switching from a central striker to a right-winger, was pure instinct to follow in Lucas De Bolle’s parried effort.

“The fact he is adaptable and can play both positions will help him,” Dickman added. “That’s a good strength for him to have within his game.

“He can do either role well. The important thing is that he develops and learns in both positions. His attitude is really good, he works really hard.

“I believe he has improved a hell of a lot over time since he has been in with the academy from a technical point of view.

“You see his first goal tonight, it’s terrific. He shows really good composure and it’s a really good finish.

“He’s prepared to make those runs which will help him, whether he’s playing wide or down the middle.”

Loan interest - but Stephenson is going nowhere

NewcastleWorld understands there has been plenty of interest from other clubs in Stephenson following his eye-catching start to the campaign.

Indeed, officials at League Two side Hartlepool United were present as Stephenson put in a man of the match display against Sunderland.

However, with Stephenson still only 18 and fresh into the under-23s set up, a loan exit won’t happen with Newcastle are eager to keep his progress in-house for now.

That way, the Magpies can keep a close eye on the former Newcastle City Juniors striker and reassess his development in the summer.

Certainly, at the moment, Stephenson is doing all the right things.