Newcastle United fullback Shane Ferguson knows the Europa League will offer the club's youngsters a chance to prove themselves.

Victory in the August play-off round game will see an extra six matches for Newcastle to squeeze in before Christmas during a period, when Alan Pardew's squad will be tested to the limit.

Ferguson - along with Sammy Ameobi, Haris Vuckic, James Tavernier and Michael Richardson - are likely to get blooded in the competition.

The Academy product told the Evening Chronicle: "I just want to excite the fans and get my chance.

"The manager has been great and I just want to continue with my progress."