Newcastle United's academy have established a new 'strategic relationship' with Northern Irish champions Larne FC. The two clubs are set to work together with staff, players, coach development and scouting listed as the areas both aim to develop.

Larne's senior side won the Premiership title for the first time in the club’s 134-history this summer and have worked hard to strengthen the club's academy and women's team in recent years.

“We have been involved in extremely positive discussions with Newcastle United for some time over a strategic working relationship, which we feel can be mutually beneficial," Larne owner Kenny Bruce said after the announcement. "At Larne, we have made no secret that our aim is to work with the top young talent on the island of Ireland and we have been making changes to our Academy at all levels, as we seek to make this aim a reality.

“Newcastle United, particularly through Dan Ashworth, has recognised the strides we have made within our structure and the emphasis we are placing on developing the best young players. At all levels it is clear both Newcastle United and Larne are clubs moving in the right direction and we feel this affiliation will play a huge part in helping to grow that momentum."

Newcastle have sought the best talent from across the UK and further afield since sporting director Dan Ashworth's arrival last year. Top talent such as Garang Kuol, Yankuba Minteh, Alex Murphy, Jude Smith, Charlie McArthur and Amadou Diallo has arrived on Tyneside in recent months as Ben Dawson's youth side is bolstered.

“I have been hugely impressed by Kenny Bruce and his team, and this will be a great opportunity to share best practice and innovations that will benefit both clubs," Ashworth said about the Larne partnership.

“Our next generations of talent will only support and sustain both clubs’ future successes and we look forward to supporting one another on our respective journeys.”

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I think this is really good news, the type of thing we want to be doing.