Chris Hughton in striker warning

Oct 10 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

Although the loan signing of Marlon Harewood and the return to fitness of Peter Løvenkrands has taken the pressure off the youngsters to an extent, the size of United’s squad means both Carroll and Ranger will continue to be involved with the first team, particularly as Ameobi will not play until December.

It has been a steep learning curve, but Carroll in particular has thrived with the greater responsibility he has been given in the Championship and is showing signs he could develop into a top-class target man.

The 20-year-old from Gateshead, who has broken into the England Under-21 squad – for whom he scored twice in last night’s 6-3 European Championship qualifying win over Macedonia – has scored twice for his club this season.

But it is his ability to overpower Championship centre-backs which has been one of Newcastle’s secret weapons in their impressive start.

“The most important thing is they give us options,” said Hughton. “In Andy Carroll, Nile Ranger, Marlon Harewood and Peter Løvenkrands, and Kevin Nolan can play there, we have different options.

“The most important thing is they continue to learn and enjoy this division. At times we have found we need to go longer at times. O course there are not many better than Andy in the air.

“Andy is a classic No 9, whereas a lot of the modern-day centre-forwards are what we used to call No 10s. They are all about pace, movement, the ability to drop off players and link with midfield.

“But Andy is a fantastic throwback to the days of the big, strong, fearless No 9. He has a lot of ability on the ground as well, but his ability to dominate defenders in the air is what really sets him apart.

“Like anyone of his age, we as coaches have a responsibility to use him sensibly, and take him out of the firing line every now and then if he would benefit from a rest. But his form this season has been excellent. He’s developing very nicely and is a huge asset for us and, hopefully, England.

“Young Nile has also come and had a real impact on the squad. He will be in and out of the side, as will Andy, because of the other strikers we have but they will definitely be better off for the experience they are getting at the moment.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle are keeping a close eye on Malmo’s exciting young Nigerian striker Edward Ofere, who could be on his way to England in January.

The Magpies sold Nigerian attacker Obafemi Martins to Wolfsburg in the summer but are thinking about making a move for his fellow countryman.