Young Arsenal goalkeeper Noah Cooper has joined Newcastle United on trial ahead of leaving the club on his contract’s expiry this summer.
The 18-year-old is reportedly set to be released by the Gunners at the end of the season and won’t be offered a professional contract. Cooper is looking for his next opportunity and the Magpies are keen to find out more about the player.
The shot-stopper joined Arsenal from London rivals Crystal Palace as a schoolboy and came through the Gunners academy. Cooper broke into the Arsenal under-21 side last season and has been named in the side’s squad for Premier League 2 matches.
Cooper has more readily played for the under-18 side this term but is now on trial in the North East. According to NewcastleWorld, the goalkeeper played for Newcastle United’s under-18 team in a 2-1 defeat to Blackburn Rovers last weekend and could feature again when Liverpool visit on Tuesday night.
The goalkeeper shared a soft spot for Newcastle United and St James’ Park when speaking about the Magpies following an Arsenal win against the side in the FA Youth Cup last season. Having beaten Newcastle in the fourth round, Cooper said: “Playing at St James’ Park in the next round was a fantastic experience for us. Having the opportunity to play at iconic stadiums is great for our development and we relish the opportunity of what life will be like in the first team. It’s something for us to aspire to and drives us going forward.
“Being coached by Jack Wilshere has been very enjoyable. He trusts me to play in the FA Youth Cup, which has boosted my confidence massively. He has also got such a unique experience because he has won trophies, competed at World Cups and played with world-class players. I learn so much from him all the time. By the end of this season I want to keep my performance levels high enough so Jack continues to trust me in goal.”
