Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles says youthfulness gives Toon the edge over rivals

NEWCASTLE are the top flight’s least experienced side – their average age is under 25 – but they have won three successive top flight games before September is out for the first time since 2001.

Jamaal LascellesGETTY

Jamaal Lascelles was again the hero for Newcastle

Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez may have failed to recruit the players he wanted during the transfer window but he has fashioned an outfit brimming with enthusiasm, confidence and commitment.

“We’ve got such a young team, it gives us a big advantage in terms of our energy,” said captain Jamaal Lascelles, whose leadership qualities belie his 23 years and who scored for the second time in six days.

“It really counts when we play against teams a little bit older. Our average age is only about 25 – it’s only Matt Ritchie (he’s 28) who spoils it!

“We can really get about the pitch and get down people’s boots. That is what is really pushing us at the minute. Our inexperience is a strength.”

As for his own scoring prowess, he said: “It’s a little bit different because in the Championship, it’s more of a wrestling match in the box. Players will get hold of you and they’re big, strong boys who defend set-pieces well.

Xherdan ShaqiriGETTY

Xherdan Shaqiri netted with a fine finish for Stoke

We’ve got such a young team, it gives us a big advantage in terms of our energy

Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles scored the winner

“In the Premier League, no disrespect to teams, when they mark zonal, you get a running jump.”

The centre half’s winner was a near carbon copy of his Swansea goal with both owing much to Ritchie’s dead ball expertise at corners.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes is satisfied with his side’s start to a campaign after a tough set of fixtures but defender Erik Pieters revealed the visitors were beating themselves up after losing to a set piece.

“It’s frustrating,” he said. “Set-pieces are such a big part of football.

“We have to be honest with ourselves. We didn’t defend the corner properly and gave him a free header. You can’t do that and we can’t afford to concede many more goals like that.”

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