Newcastle United reserves coach Willie Donachie has told his youngsters they'll get their first team chance if they prove themselves.

Donachie says player development comes ahead of points.

"It's been a tremendous start to the season," he told the Evening Chronicle.

"But it is really about the development of our young players and getting them ready for the first team.

"I would rather lose every game if it means the players are developing and we are moving them up to the first-team pool.

"A lot of them have already been given their chance. But they have the chance to prove they can be players here at Newcastle or, if not, become players in the Football League.

"There are lots of scouts going to be at the game tonight and it is a real opportunity.

"The likes of Haris Vuckic, Nile Ranger, Michael Richardson and Shane Ferguson have proved if you do well in the reserves, the rewards are there in the first team."