The Darlington-born youngster has enjoyed a bright start to the current campaign after making his full debut at Under-21 level in August's National League Cup clash against Tamworth at the tender age of 16 as well as featuring in the Premier League 2 and Jersey Mike's Trophy.

The promising shot-stopper, who joined the Magpies' Academy at Under-8 level, was delighted to commit his future further with United and praised the coaching staff at Newcastle's Academy for their continuous support which has, ultimately, led to a maiden pro deal.

"I've been at the club for about eight years now and when I was offered the [professional] contract, I was over the moon," Mair told newcastleunited.com. "It means a lot. I'm really grateful for the opportunity I've been given.

"Newcastle has developed me and the coaching staff have helped to get me to where I am now. I'm really appreciative of what they've done for me and it means so much, especially signing for Newcastle.

"I love the facilities - it's quite local for me and I really enjoy being around the environment and staff. The coaches are great, especially when I've been up at the first team. It's all very positive.

"To have first team exposure at my age, training with the squad, is a really big part of my development. I can learn a lot from the older lads, getting tips from them, and it's a great experience."

Mair has enjoyed making the step from U18 to U21s football this season and has competed alongside 16-year-old 'keeper Roman Dowell for the number one role, who joined the Magpies' youth set-up at U9 level.

Mair, who made his UEFA Youth League bow against FC Barcelona aged 15, has embraced the "healthy competition" with his goalkeeping compatriot and believes the pair have positively elevated their levels throughout their footballing journeys.

"It's been really good having that exposure with the Under-21s," he added. "It's a lot different to Under-18s football with the physicality and playing style, which has been great to learn from to benefit me for the next game I play.

"Me and Roman are good friends. We make each other better and we are really supportive of each other in training which is very positive.

"I'd class myself as a modern-day goalkeeper. I like to play out from the back, using my feet a lot and I love shot-stopping. I'll come and claim anything around my box."

Mair will be aiming to follow in the footsteps of goalkeeping graduates such as Tim Krul, Freddie Woodman and Fraser Forster who have gone on to play in-between the sticks for the Magpies at senior level.

The England Under-17 international, who cites David De Gea as his footballing idol, is determined to progress further and admits seeing a number of Academy prospects feature in Matthias Jaissle's first-team squad already this term provides a "confidence boost" in bidding to make his senior debut for United.

He added: "You've seen a few of the Academy players going up with the first-team, which makes you think of how to get there and what you can do to get there yourself.

"It is a stepping stone but very positive to know that he likes the younger players.In the long-term, I hope to play with the first-team.

"Right now, I want to play for the Under-21s, be consistent in that team, and make sure I am performing well in those games."