Benitez wants to have talented youngsters in academy

RAFA Benitez is hoping that the Checkatrade Trophy will be a good exercise for the club’s youngsters this season. The Magpies have been drawn in Group D and will face away games at Oldham Athletic, Port Vale and Crewe Alexandra with a mix of five senior players and six Under-21 players permitted in each team.

When asked about the competition, Benitez said: “They are working hard behind the scenes trying to do something a little bit different, and I think that will be good for the boys.

“We will see how they progress in the future.”

Benitez knows the importance of blooding young home-grown players and with work permits set to be needed because of Brexit in future years, clubs may have to rely on Academy products.

Benitez feels competitions like the Checkatrade Trophy will help give them vital experience.

Indeed, Oldham, Port Vale and Crewe must play a first choice XI or potentially face a fine of up to £5,000.

Speaking about giving players their chance Benitez said: “I think every year it’s more difficult because of the money. You can bring more players from abroad.

“Normally, if you bring players from abroad, they have to be better.

“So for the young lads, for the homegrown boys, it’s always more difficult to have an opportunity in the first team.

“But it’s important for them to keep going, to keep working hard, and if they have talent, it’s ideal for