Dan Barlaser - Wor Jackie Trophy

Our final two awards focus on Newcastle United - and what a different club it looks compared to twelve months ago. Our football club represents this city like no other. So here’s hoping our winners can make their mark as we enter the next half century of Sport Newcastle.

The first of our football awards honours the United great Jackie Milburn. The Rising Star of Newcastle United singles out the best player to emerge from the club’s Academy and this year it goes to a local lad from just across the river in Gateshead. Rafael Benitez has obviously seen plenty to impress him.

He’s already handed this 20-year-old England Youth international his first team debut in the heart of midfield, celebrating his birthday by playing against Birmingham City in an FA Cup replay.

Newcastle United fans really would love to see a rising star of their own. The Wor Jackie Trophy is supported by the Evening Chronicle and was presented by editor in chief, Darren Thwaites. It goes to DAN BARLASER.