PETER Ramage might have been a total unknown before Sunday's trip to Old Trafford, but his team-mate Andy O'Brien expects even better things from the Newcastle novice in the future.

Ramage, who is in talks over a new deal at St James' Park, made his first senior start in the rarefied atmosphere of Old Trafford and immediately looked at home as he successfully shackled Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs.

The Whitley Bay-born centre-half has been a reserve-team regular this season, but few will have know much about him before Stephen Carr's positional change saw him promoted to the first team on Sunday.

O'Brien has been paying close attention to his progress though, and is confident his fellow defender has both the ability and the attitude to succeed at the highest level.

"Don't be surprised if that's the first of many starts in a black and white shirt," said the Republic of Ireland international, who partnered Jean-Alain Boumsong at Old Trafford in the absence of Titus Bramble.

"Peter Ramage is a fantastic defender with a great build, and he's two-footed.

"Even before he slotted into the defence (as a substitute) against Olympiacos last month, I could see a big future for him and he took his chance well that night.

"It's difficult for young players to come through at big clubs, but Peter has a lot of quality and he enjoyed his first-team debut."

Ramage was not the only fresh face involved last weekend, as a combination of injuries and suspensions forced Graeme Souness to name an experimental starting line-up with a high concentration of youth.

Teenagers James Milner and Charles N'Zogbia linked up with 21-year-old Darren Ambrose and 23-year-old Shola Ameobi to form one of the youngest midfield units in Premiership history.

O'Brien is only 25 himself but, after making more than 170 appearances for the Magpies, the defender is happy to play the role of elder statesman.

"I see myself as one of the senior players now," he said. "And when a lad like Peter does come into the team, I'll make sure I'm there for him.

"It's easy to have a go at the young lads but positive encouragement is important. I'd imagine a young player will progress more quickly with praise, rather than criticism, ringing in his ears."

Ironically, one of O'Brien or Ramage is likely to miss out tomorrow night as another talented teenager returns to the fray.

Steven Taylor has been one of the few success stories in an otherwise tortuous season, and he should be fit for the derby after ankle trouble.

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