Shahar relishing National League Cup opener | OneFootball

Diarmuid O'Carroll's side make the trip to The Shay for their opening Group C game (kick-off 7pm BST) before then facing away clashes against Tamworth, Boston United and Gateshead as the top two sides of the eight-team group, which also involves Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Leeds United's second-string sides, progress into the quarter-final stages of the inaugural competition.

Shahar, a representative of England at under-18 level, believes the cup contest against The Shaymen, who currently occupy 11th place in the English fifth tier, will only prove beneficial for the young Magpies.

The Wolverhampton-born right-back told newcastleunited.com: "Any chance we get to play against a professional league side is a good leveller to see where we are at and how we can cope under pressure against a mens' team.

"Playing first-team football is the level I want to get to. It gives you a good indicator of where you want to get to in the future to be playing mens' football.

"When you can play against a league team, it's good for the under-21s as a whole as we don't get that experience very often so, any chance we do, it's only a good thing for us. Halifax will be a physical team so we will need to know how to cope with that."

Newcastle's youngsters recorded a 2-0 home victory against their Blackburn Rovers counterparts in the Premier League 2 on Friday night, with Shahar captaining the hosts as O'Carroll marked his first game since his appointment as Newcastle's Under-21s Lead Coach in winning fashion.

The highly-rated defender, who signed his first professional contract with the Magpies in May 2024, was pleased to be handed the captain's armband and is keen for the squad to build on their bright display against Rovers.

"It's good momentum for the team," he added. "A new manager has come in and I think he's improved us, even though he hasn't had long to do it, but we understand what he wants and how to get the best out of each other.

"Being captain is a massive responsibility and I think it only enhances my performance. I feel I have to talk more, which makes the game easier for me, and I relish the moment to improve my performance and get the win as a team.

"I feel it's an indicator of where I'm at and how I'm developing. It seems that I'm doing well as they trust me to take the armband but sometimes it's not just about being captain. It is a big responsibility but you have to perform well as a team and do your individual roles."

Location of supporters and matchday prices

Newcastle United supporters will be located in the East Stand (turnstiles 19 & 20). This game is not segregated and is a strictly cash turnstile. Please go to reception for any necessary card payments.

Admission prices are as follows:

Adults - £12.00

Concessions (State pension age) - £10.00

12-17 years old - £5.00

Under 12s – Free of charge

Disabled supporters pay admission prices as per their relevant age group. A carer, if required, is admitted free of charge. Please go to reception for assistance.