National League side FC Halifax Town have pulled off what many are calling a sensational coup by signing talented midfielder Jay Turner-Cooke, who was released by Premier League giants Newcastle United earlier this summer.
The 21-year-old midfielder, once seen as a promising product within Newcastle’s academy, has now taken the bold step of moving to Halifax in search of regular first-team football. While his time at St. James’ Park did not yield any senior appearances, Turner-Cooke gained valuable experience during loan spells, most notably with Tranmere Rovers and St Johnstone.
Halifax confirmed the signing on Tuesday afternoon, with manager Chris Millington hailing the deal as a major boost for the club’s ambitions this season.
> “Jay is a fantastic addition for us,” Millington said. “He has experience at a higher level, and although he didn’t break into Newcastle’s first team, his pedigree speaks for itself. He’s hungry to prove himself, and that’s exactly the kind of mentality we want at this football club.”
Turner-Cooke made 12 appearances for Tranmere Rovers in 2023, showing flashes of his technical quality and vision in midfield. More recently, his loan at St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership allowed him to experience top-flight football, though game time was limited.
The player himself expressed excitement about the move, describing it as a fresh start:
> “I’m really grateful for the opportunity to join Halifax. The club has shown great faith in me, and I can’t wait to get on the pitch, give everything, and help the team push forward this season,” Turner-Cooke told the club’s media team.
Fans of Halifax have reacted with optimism on social media, with many believing this could be the kind of signing that sparks a strong push in the National League campaign. Turner-Cooke’s technical ability, combined with his Premier League academy background, makes him an exciting prospect for Halifax supporters who have been eager for reinforcements in midfield.
Club legend and former captain Scott McManus also weighed in on the signing during a local radio interview, praising the ambition of the move:
> “This is the kind of signing that shows Halifax mean business. Jay might not have made it at Newcastle, but the talent is clearly there. What he needs is confidence, minutes, and a team that believes in him. Halifax could be the perfect place for that.”
While Turner-Cooke arrives with much to prove, there is no doubt that Halifax’s gamble could pay off handsomely. Young, versatile, and eager to leave his mark, he fits the mold of a player ready to ignite his career at a crucial stage.
For Halifax, this is more than just another signing—it’s a statement of intent. With the National League season heating up, the Shaymen now have a midfielder with both pedigree and potential, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if Turner-Cooke can deliver on the promise that once made him one of Newcastle’s brightest academy stars.
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