NEWCASTLE United have allowed three promising youngsters to head out on loan to gain vital first-team experience.

Matthew Grieve, 20, has signed a month-long temporary deal with League Two outfit Stockport County, while James Tavernier and Joan Simun Edmundsson will ply their trade at Gateshead in the Blue Square Premier for the next four weeks.

Grieve, a centre-back, has represented the Magpies at every level from Under 14 to the reserve team - where he has been a virtual ever-present this season - and scored the winner against Manchester City's second string in November.

Full-back Tavernier, 19, made his first team debut in September 2009 and has two appearances to his name - both in the Carling Cup.

He will be joined at the Gateshead International Stadium by Edmundsson, a Faroe Islands international.

The forward, also 19, who can play in midfield or attack, has been a regular for Newcastle's reserves this season and has seven caps for his country.

Manager Alan Pardew said: "This is a great opportunity for all three of the young lads to play competitive football. Having these loan deals can only aid their development and they will come back to St. James' Park better for the experience."