NEWSFEED: Who Is Afner Cá? Newcastle's 19-Year-Old Striker Knocking on the First-Team Door
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Newcastle United may have unearthed an exciting young prospect in Afner Cá, the 19-year-old striker who has been training with Matthias Jaissle's first-team squad ahead of today's trip to Crystal Palace.
The Guinea-Bissau forward only arrived at Newcastle in July, joining the Academy on a free transfer after leaving Spanish club Levante.
But after making an impressive start with the Under-21s, he's already attracting attention.
Three Goals and a First-Team Opportunity
Cá scored his first Newcastle goal in the Under-21s' 3-1 EFL Trophy victory over York City in September.
He followed that with two goals in a 4-1 Premier League Cup victory against Luton Town earlier this month.
Those performances helped earn him a place in the wider first-team squad for Newcastle's recent match against Aston Villa.
Although he wasn't named among the substitutes, his inclusion as the 21st player was a significant step forward.
And he's remained involved in first-team training this week.
Who Exactly Is Afner Cá?
Born in Guinea-Bissau, Cá developed his football in Portugal before moving to Levante in Spain.
He joined Newcastle during the summer, with the club's recruitment staff identifying him as a player with considerable potential.
The youngster has described himself as a forward who enjoys finding space, linking up with teammates and working hard for the team.
At approximately 6ft 4in, he also offers a physical presence that could become particularly useful in the Premier League.
His early performances suggest he's settling into English football remarkably quickly.
Could He Feature Against Crystal Palace?
There's no guarantee Cá will be involved at Selhurst Park this afternoon.
Indeed, reports suggest he's unlikely to make the matchday squad if Newcastle's senior players are available.
Nevertheless, the fact that Jaissle has invited him into first-team training so soon after his arrival is encouraging.
With Newcastle struggling to create chances in recent matches, supporters will naturally be interested in any young striker showing an eye for goal.
Of course, three goals for the Under-21s don't automatically mean a player is ready for Premier League football.
But everyone has to start somewhere.
Another Youngster Worth Watching?
Newcastle have invested heavily in developing their Academy, and supporters are understandably keen to see more youngsters progress into the senior side.
Cá is still at an early stage of his development, but his progress over the past few weeks suggests he's a player worth keeping an eye on.
And if he continues scoring goals, Jaissle may eventually have a difficult decision to make.
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