Crystal Palace Under-18s Head Coach Javier Alonso has been reflecting on recent learnings, the significance of the FA Youth Cup, and the challenge ahead as the young Eagles prepare to face Newcastle United in a highly anticipated Fourth Round tie on Thursday evening (22nd January, 19:00 GMT).
The whole game will be broadcast LIVE on Palace TV+ on Thursday (22nd January), with pre-match content available from 18:00 GMT - click HERE to subscribe now and choose a package that’s right for you.
Can’t watch live? Stay up to date with live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page and look out for the full match report and reaction on our Academy news section shortly after the final whistle.
Highlights will also be available on Palace TV+.
We can and we must be better
—Javier Alonso
The new year began with a setback for Palace, as we were beaten 3-1 by an in-form West Bromwich Albion side in the U18s Premier League South – a performance Alonso believes his side can quickly learn from.
“Of course, we can play better,” Alonso admitted. “I don’t think we played as a team and we didn’t give our best. The players need to push themselves more in the next game because, in my opinion, that level wasn’t good enough.
“I know the quality of this group and I’m sure we can improve. We created chances, but it wasn’t enough. We can and we must be better.”
Development is the priority in an Academy
—Javier Alonso
Despite recent results, the Academy continues to thrive. Four graduates – Dean Benamar, George King, Benji Casey and Joel Drakes-Thomas – made their senior debuts towards the end of 2025 and have remained involved with the first team, alongside Kaden Rodney and Zach Marsh. Charlie Walker-Smith and Jacob Fasida have also stepped up to Under-21s level, providing both opportunity and challenge for Alonso as players move between squads.
“First of all, I’m really happy,” he said. “We are here to develop players. Of course, results are important, but development is the priority in an Academy.
“The boys are now operating at another level. Some are with the first team, some with the Under-21s, and they are improving all the time. They are good boys and, for the Newcastle game, I’m confident they will be ready.”
Emotion control is very important in games like this
—Javier Alonso
Palace booked their place in the Fourth Round with an impressive 3-0 victory over Bradford City under the lights at Selhurst Park – an occasion Alonso believes played a big role in the performance.
“For the boys, playing at Selhurst Park for the first time is always special,” he said. “I remember they were a little nervous in the first half, but we improved as the game went on.
“That experience helps a lot. Emotion control is very important in games like this, and I think we learned from that night.”
They are a really good team
—Javier Alonso
Reflecting on the FA Youth Cup more broadly, Alonso highlighted how knockout football brings a different edge compared to league fixtures.
“It’s always special because it’s knockout football. You have to give everything,” he explained. “The league is different – you play every Saturday – but this is one game and that changes the mentality.
“For a big game against Newcastle, mentality and playing as a team are the most important things. The FA Cup is special in England, and the boys feel that. The staff feel it too – we’re all excited.”
Looking ahead to Thursday’s opponents, Alonso expects a tough test against a talented Newcastle side.
“They are a really good team,” he said. “We’ve watched them and they have good players and a strong side.
“We just need to stay focused on how we want to play. We have a few days to prepare and, if we improve as a team like we have before, I’m sure we’ll be fine.”
The whole game will be broadcast LIVE on Palace TV+ on Thursday (22nd January), with pre-match content available from 18:00 GMT - click HERE to subscribe now and choose a package that’s right for you.
Please note that Thursday's match is only accessible to viewers in the UK, due to FA broadcasting rules.
Can’t watch live? Stay up to date with live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page and look out for the full match report and reaction on our Academy news section shortly after the final whistle.
Highlights will also be available on Palace TV+.
Tickets for the match will be available on the night only, with entry via the turnstiles.
Any player guest tickets can be collected from the reception desk in the NUFC Media Centre building, with access then via the turnstiles.
All other spectators should enter directly through the turnstiles, with ticket prices set at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.
Newcastle United U18s v Crystal Palace U18s
