Dylan Stephenson has recently returned from a loan spell at South Shields and is attempting to rescue his Newcastle United career.
Dylan Stephenson scored a goal after being given one more chance to shine for Newcastle United before a decision on his future.
In January, the Magpies loaned the forward to South Shields of the National League North. Stephenson lacks senior first-team experience, having made only 12 appearances for Scottish minnows Hamilton Academical last season.
The Blyth native performed admirably for Ben Dawson’s under-21s earlier this season. His four goals were scarcely spectacular, but he made advantage of his opportunity when he was traded to the Mariners at the turn of the year.
South Shields finished eighth in the sixth division after scoring eight goals and providing one assist. However, his exploits were insufficient to earn him a fresh contract with Newcastle.
The cruel fact of professional football is that not everyone makes the cut, and Stephenson will most likely be released alongside teammates Michael Ndiweni (20) and winger Amadou Diallo. As things stand, the trio will be seeking for new teams this summer, hoping to revive their careers in the lower levels.
Last year, Stephenson told NewcastleWorld that he wants to follow Elliot Anderson’s lead and go out on loan. The midfielder spent half a season with Bristol Rovers, and he used that success to break into Eddie Howe’s first-team group.
Anderson has started the Magpies’ last two Premier League games, but Stephenson’s Toon dream is on the verge of falling apart. Returning from South Shields has offered him one more chance to persuade Howe and Co to renew.
The 21-year-old was picked to Dickman’s starting lineup and scored a 10th-minute goal in the youthful Magpies’ 2-1 victory over Stoke City. Diallo, as well as winter addition Alfie Harrison, were named to the team sheet.
