Newcastle United defender Kevin Mbabu admits he could easily be playing Conference football this season.

The Toon defender was also understood to be on Gateshead's radar for a possible loan move, just days before being handed his debut at St James' Park.

Mbabu is now part of Toon's Premier League first team and told the Evening Chronicle: “In pre-season going on loan was in my mind, yes.

“I stayed and I think it has been a good choice because I have been given a chance to work with the first team."