JAK Alnwick has been told to “keep up the good work” by Gateshead boss Ian Bogie for today’s visit to the Buck’s Head to face AFC Telford.

The England Under-20 keeper had a request from the Tynesiders sanctioned to have his loan deal extended until the end of the season for the Blue Square Premier Bet Division promotion hopefuls.

Alnwick, the younger sibling of former Sunderland goalie Ben, is still just 18 but the Magpies are keen for him to bolster his experience with an extended run of games in the Conference.

In doing so, Alnwick follows in the footsteps of one of United’s senior keepers Steve Harper who also spent a spell at the International Stadium earlier in his career.

But for Bogie, it is very much about the here and now as he looks to stop the rot for out of sorts Gateshead.

The former Newcastle and Port Vale midfielder said: “Jak has impressed me during training and in matches.

“He fully deserved his call up to the first team against Southport in midweek where his performance was excellent. He is a smashing lad and clearly has a bright future in the game.

“I am delighted that Newcastle United have agreed to extend his loan period until the end of the year and thank them for that.”

Gateshead have won just one of their last five games in the Conference but sit on 30 points and in seventh place.

However, Bogie’s opposing manager today is a recognisable figure to the Tyneside public in the form of Geordie and former England international Andy Sinton.

Sinton finds himself under pressure with Telford. And has pleaded with fans to keep it real.

He said: “I can’t stop what people think but they’ve got to wise up and understand what we’re up against.

“The full-time scenario against the non-league scenario will always tell, but we’re doing OK.”