Newcastle United new signing spotted in training - not long after chairman confirmed move

It’s been a whirwind week for new Newcastle United signing Jude Smith.
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Jude Smith has been drafted into Newcastle United first team training - less than a week after joining the club.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper will strengthen the Magpies’ academy ranks this campaign following his arrival from East Fife for an undisclosed fee.

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However, as is the case with head coach Eddie Howe, Smith was the latest youngster to be invited to train with the senior squad ahead of Sunday’s clash with Manchester City.

In United’s latest batch of training pictures, Smith was captured alongside under-21s goalkeeper Max Thompson and diving to keep a shot out from Miguel Almiron.

It will have undoubtedly been an invaluable experience for Smith just days after joining from the Scottish League Two side.

Classy East Fife farewell

When announcing Smith’s departure, East Fife paid a classy goodbye to the former Celtic youngster.

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“Everyone at East Fife would like to wish Jude all the best at Newcastle,” said chairman Jim Stevenson, It’s a move that’s richly deserved.

“He showed maturity beyond his years at times last season and I have every confidence he will be a success at Newcastle. Thank you and good luck.”

Manager Steven Crawford added: “Everyone at the club is delighted for Jude to earn a move to one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League.

“Although we are obviously disappointed to lose him, we also recognise what a great opportunity this is for Jude.

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“It reflects well on East Fife and the type of club we are trying to be, giving young players an opportunity to develop, do well for the club and move on to full-time opportunities.

“We wish Jude well and thank him for his service to East Fife.”

What Jude Smith said about his move to Newcastle

On signing for Newcastle, Smith told nufc.co.uk: “I’m buzzing to be signing for Newcastle United. After playing in the lower leagues of Scotland, I couldn’t be happier with the opportunity to go and play for a club like Newcastle.

“I was playing part-time at East Fife last season so it’s a great opportunity to be full-time with Newcastle. It’s an unbelievable chance for me to go and develop my career further so it was a no-brainer for me to join.

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“Playing for East Fife’s first-team was good experience, especially at a young age, and playing mens’ football did me the world of good. I just want to be playing week in week out, especially as a goalkeeper.

“It’s the next chapter in my life which I’m looking forward to and really hope to kick on.”

Smith made 28 appearances for East Fife last season following his release from Celtic.