Academy. Ferreira seeking Sunderland success at St. James'

Matheos Ferreira pre-S'land
Published
11 minutes ago
Team
U21

Matheos Ferreira is hopeful Newcastle United Under-21s will prove victorious in Monday's Premier League 2 clash against Sunderland (kick-off 7pm GMT).

Luke Vinton

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The young Magpies host their local rivals under the lights at St. James' Park, targeting a third successive win across all competitions after defeating Luton Town U21s and Hartlepool United in the Premier League Cup and National League Cup respectively.

Ferreira, who joined United's Academy in 2020 after playing for local club Berwick Juniors, is determined for United's second-string to prevail against their local rivals as well as recording a first league win of the 2026/27 season.

"Everyone is excited for the game," the 18-year-old forward told newcastleunited.com. "It's a derby and something we are all looking forward to. It's one of the biggest games of the season just to try and get that win over them.

"When the fixtures are out at the start of the season, the game against Sunderland and playing against the men's teams in the EFL Trophy rank among the top.

"Playing at St. James' Park adds a little bit more of an atmosphere too. It's a good opportunity to play at the stadium and an exciting one for all of the lads."

Currently situated at the foot of the PL2 table after losing their opening three matches, Ferreira is hopeful Newcastle's youngsters can take inspiration from their wins against York City and Hartlepool to climb the league ladders, with the top 16 sides qualifying for the elimination play-offs as well as next season's Premier League International Cup.

"Getting back-to-back wins before the Sunderland game has been really important for the team to try and build momentum and having that consistency," he added.

"We've shown our qualities, especially against senior opposition, and it's now about making sure we do that in the PL2.

"There are good fixtures coming up for the group and good opportunities. It's about making sure we stick together and getting the most out of them."

Ferreira, born to a Brazilian father and Italian mother, has carried out a bright start to the current campaign after making his senior debut for his boyhood club during July's pre-season friendly away at Gateshead.

After featuring on the wing for Robbie Stockdale's side last season, a positional switch has proved beneficial for the promising teenager, who has started all ten of the Under-21s' competitive outings so far this term, scoring two goals.

"I'm playing in a different role this season, as a number ten, but I am capable of playing in any attacking position. I'm enjoying it. I don't mind where I play. I think it shows I can be in any position without it proving a challenge.

"It's been good so far, getting a lot of minutes, and I want to keep going and making sure I'm putting in strong performances on a regular basis."

Get your tickets

Tickets for Newcastle United Under-21s' Premier League 2 clash against Sunderland at St. James' Park are on sale here.

Spectators can gain entry into the stadium via the East Stand but please note there will be no cash turnstiles.

Tickets can be purchased via the club website up until 7pm (GMT) on Monday, 26th October while the Box Office, situated in the crowd corridor, will also be open between 4pm and 7pm.

Season ticket holders gain free entry to the game but must still claim their ticket online, otherwise it's £5 for adults and £2 juniors.

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