Newcastle United goalkeeping coach Andy Woodman says Jak Alnwick can handle the pressure of being their senior goalkeeper.

The 21-year-old will make the first start of his professional career at Arsenal on Saturday and is set to have an extended stay in the team in the absence of Tim Krul and Rob Elliot.

Woodman told the Evening Chronicle: "Jak's an incredibly mature young man. You wouldn't think he's just 21 talking to him or indeed watching him play out there.

"I wouldn't have any worries about Jak because there is this calmness and assurance about him, and I think against Chelsea his team-mates saw that and it gave them confidence.

"He's like a lot of young English players, bags of talent and good character, but it's all about getting the chance and as a goalkeeper, it's even harder to be given that chance.

"If Jak plays at Arsenal, I'd have absolutely no worries about it. He'll handle the occasion. In fact, he'll relish it. Listen, I've been speaking highly about Jak for years.

"I tell people that when Jak eventually breaks onto the scene, they're going to see a very good young goalkeeper."