Reserves Start Against Bradford at SJP on Tuesday

Newcastle United Reserves kick off their league campaign with the visit of Bradford City to St.James' Park on Tuesday night (kick-off 7pm).

The Magpies finished fourth last time around but, because of the senior side's relegation from the Premier League, also found themselves drop down a division into the Totesport.com Reserve League.

Admission, via the East Stand, is free on production of an NUFC season ticket or £3 (senior) / £1.50 (concessions)

Coach Alan Thompson had this to say to nufcTV

"This league could be a wake-up call, You don't play against Academy sides anymore at this level - you play against men who have had careers in the game. But hopefully that will only be a good thing. It will certainly be a stiff test for the lads. They're going to have to compete physically more than they did last season. But we've got some talented young players and we're hoping they step up to an enjoy the challenge."

Squad: Ole Soderberg, Max Johnson, Samuel Adjei, Phil Airey, Sammy Ameobi, Paul Dummett, Stephen Folan, Darren Lough, Kazenga LuaLua, Greg McDermott, Patrick McLaughlin, Conor Newton, Wesley Ngo Baheng, James Tavernier, Ben Tozer, Frank Wiafe Danquah

Manager of the Month Short List

Chris Hughton has been included on a four-man shortlist for the Championship Manager of the Month award for August.

The Toon boss, in caretaker charge since July 1, has steered his side to the top of the table after an unbeaten start which has yielded 13 points from a possible 15.

Indeed, following last Wednesday's 1-0 win over Leicester City, which took the Magpies two points clear of second-placed West Brom, United stars Steve Harper and Danny Guthrie called for Hughton's effort to be recognised with the monthly prize.

Hughton is joined on the list by Preston North End chief Alan Irvine, West Brom's Roberto Di Matteo and Sheffield United's Kevin Blackwell.

Danny Guthrie Looking For Goals

talking to nufcTV

"I think a midfielder, at this level especially, should be looking at double figures, "Everyone needs to chip in because you need to score a lot of goals to get out of this division. I'm delighted to have two already and I'm aiming for at least 10 and hopefully more.

I feel good now but I'll only get sharper the more games I play, It was disappointing to miss the start of the season but the lads have done brilliantly and it's good to come back into a winning side. I want to be a part of this team and play as many matches as possible this season and get us back into the Premier League."