Chopra: England Under-20 (JonBuckle/Empics)

Eighteen-year-old striker Michael Chopra, who signed his first professional contract in December 2000, has committed his future to his home town club after making it to the fringes of the first team set-up.

The England Under-20 international was on the bench for last Saturday's 2-1 Premiership win over Charlton but has yet to make his senior debut.

However, the goals the former England schoolboy international has plundered through the Academy ranks and more recently, in the reserves, have prompted the club to make their move.

'We are thrilled that Michael has agreed a new contract with us,' said Robson.

'He has been a prolific goalscorer for the junior sides in the last couple of years and has begun the new season with a bang for the reserves, so much so that he has justifiably forced his way into the first team picture.

'Michael, together with the other young players we have at the club, will have a major influence on our future, one that we hope will be very bright for Newcastle United.'

Robson's delight was mirrored by that of chairman Freddy Shepherd, who said: 'Michael is an outstanding prospect and we are delighted he has demonstrated his commitment to the long term success of Newcastle United by signing this new deal.'

Chopra is a former pupil of Alan Shearer's old school, Gosforth High, and the United coaching staff believe the similarities do not end there.

Prolific in front of goal and not afraid to make his presence felt, he is one of the brightest prospects in the United ranks.

'I am absolutely thrilled to have signed a new contract with Newcastle United,' he said.

'I am very ambitious, as is the club, and we have shown over the past year that we are capable of winning honours and competing at the highest level.

'I would also like to record my sincere thanks to my family and all the coaching staff at Newcastle United who have helped me in my career so far.'

Chopra, who played for England's Under-20s in their 2-1 win over Germany on October 23, started the current season with a bang, scoring nine goals - including two hat-tricks - in his first five games for the reserves and Under-19s, and was on target in the second string's 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Monday night.