Young duo added to first team squad

Last updated : 22 April 2005 By Rob Davies
With The Magpies' squad looking thinner then it has done all season, outgoing player/boss Ian Richardson has taken this oppurtunity to call-up the YTS pair, who both ply their trade in defence.

Wilson: Prime example
Richardson is already without himself, Mike Whitlow, Rob Ullathorne, Mike Edwards and Gavin Gordon for the remainder of the campaign, whilst Ruben Zadkovich and Shane McFaul are both away on international duty for the next two games.

Striker Matty Williams and midfielder Paul Bolland are also doubts for tomorrow's clash at Gay Meadow, forcing Richardson to call-up the pair with a view to giving them their first-team bow.

Tough-tackling Hannigan has impressed in the reserves throughout the season and has been one of the few youngsters to be offered a third and final year on his scholarship. The 18-year-old has been handed the No.27 shirt.

17-year-old right back Thacker, meanwhile, is in just the first-year of a potential three year scholarship. The youngster has been handed the No.28 shirt.

For those sceptical about the move, it must be remembered that at almost an identical time last season, second-year scholar Kelvin Wilson was handed a squad number and given his chance.

Despite netting an own goal on his debut, Wilson went on to become a feature in the Magpies line-up this season, and attract interest from a whole host of Premiership sides.