SHANE Ferguson has pledged to remain patient in his bid for regular first-team football at St James’ Park.

The Derry-born left-sided player has recovered from injury and will be in the Newcastle United squad to face Swansea City on Saturday, having made a successful return from a thigh injury sustained on international duty last month with Northern Ireland Under-21s.

Ferguson (pictured right) is one of the exciting prospects at Alan Pardew’s disposal and the 20-year-old impressed during the second string's 1-1 draw with Bolton Wanderers earlier this week, watched by assistant manager John Carver.

Ferguson – who has Ryan Taylor and Davide Santon for competition at left-back – said ahead of the visit of the Swans: “The lads have all done brilliantly this season so far.

“You cannot really fault any of them.

“If the manager needs me, though, then I am here.

“I can play midfield or defence but whatever position it is I just want to do a job for the team.” Ferguson made a cameo appearance during the 4-2 loss against Norwich City to appear in his first Premier League game this season after breaking through the ranks last term under Chris Hughton. However, within weeks of taking over, Alan Pardew was impressed by the Irishman’s skills and handed him a clutch of first-team appearances.

Within weeks, the Londoner offered Ferguson a five-year contract which he signed in May.

Ferguson is looking forward to another high-octane Premier League fixture when Swansea come to Tyneside. The once-capped Northern Ireland international said: “It is a game everybody believes we can win.

“Our home record has been very impressive this season, and we will be looking to keep that going.

“The spirit is good here and everybody plays for each other. The atmosphere in the dressing room is second to none.”

Ferguson sparked an international tug of war earlier this year with both Northern Ireland and the Republic keen to gain his long term future.

Under the Good Friday agreement, Ferguson can still opt for either side until

he has been capped at competitive level.

He indicated he was keen to play for the North by linking up with the under-21s and, with former United striker Michael O’Neil, Jim Magilton and ex-Magpies assistant manager Iain Dowie all in the frame for the job, the Academy product – just like the rest of the Irish public – will be intrigued to see who is appointed this week.

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