FC Halifax Town have strengthened their squad with the signing of midfielder Jay Turner-Cooke following his release from Newcastle United.
The 21-year-old arrives at The Shay after loan spells in England and Scotland, as Chris Millington looks to bolster his options for the National League season.
Halifax Move for Former Newcastle Prospect
Turner-Cooke began his career with Sunderland before joining Newcastle in January 2021. Although he trained with the first-team at St James’ Park, he did not make a senior appearance in the Premier League.
In January 2023 he gained Football League experience during a loan spell at Tranmere Rovers, making 12 appearances in League Two. Later that year he moved north of the border to St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership, where he featured six times during the 2023–24 campaign.
Having been released by Newcastle at the end of last season, the attacking midfielder was available as a free agent before Halifax stepped in to secure his signature.
Another Option for Millington
Turner-Cooke already has history against his new club, having lined up for Newcastle’s under-21 side in a National League Cup tie against the Shaymen last season. Halifax will now be hoping he can bring creativity and energy to their midfield as they target another competitive campaign in the National League.
The move also continues a trend of young players released from higher-tier academies using Halifax as a platform to relaunch their careers. Millington has spoken previously about the importance of balancing youth potential with experienced heads, and Turner-Cooke’s arrival reflects that strategy.
Writer’s View
This looks a smart piece of business from Halifax. Turner-Cooke’s pedigree at Sunderland and Newcastle, combined with competitive minutes at Tranmere and St Johnstone, gives him a rounded background for a 21-year-old. While he is yet to score a senior goal in his career, his ability to operate as an advanced midfielder could provide Halifax with a different option in the final third.
For the player, the move offers the chance to play regular senior football at a crucial stage of his development. If he can settle quickly, both he and Halifax stand to benefit from the deal.
