Midfielder Barlaser has been included in Neil Dewsnip’s party following a series of impressive displays for the Magpies’ U21 side.
And now with his first call-up for the Young Lions, Woodman is hoping that his club-mate can take full advantage of his international opportunity alongside him in the upcoming double-header with Russia in Moscow.
Russia v England
Under-18s International
Arena Khimki, Moscow
8 and 10 June 2015
Speaking to TheFA.com, Woodman said: “Dan will bring some quality to the squad. As the manager says, there is a lot of competition within this age group and a lot of players to pick from. Dan has got his chance now.
“His range of passing is very good and he has scored a lot of goals from outside the box too, so he will be hoping to make an impact and show people what he can do. He’s a really nice lad and the boys will welcome him into the set-up.”
Barlaser – who was born in Gateshead but has also represented Turkey at youth level – was formerly used as a dribbling winger. However, this season he has moved inside to the centre of midfield and he has blossomed in his new role.
Woodman added: “I think that move has really worked for him and he has played most of the games. He had a really good spell earlier this season and was rewarded with a pro contract at the club.
“He has also travelled with the first-team so he has got a lot of recognition for his performances in midfield and this is a good reward for him.”
Newcastle United's Adam Armstrong and Freddie Woodman are also in the U18s squad
Barlaser will be hoping to follow in an ever-growing line of Newcastle youngsters to establish themselves within the England fold over the past two years. Woodman and Adam Armstrong – who are both in the squad for the trip to Russia – are just two of those from Tyneside to shine for the Young Lions.
Woodman said: “It’s great for the club. There are a lot of good young players from the U16s all the way up and I know the academy have worked really hard with the likes of me, Dan, Arma [Armstrong] and Rolando [Aarons].
“It’s good recognition for the academy staff to have players on international duty and there is a lot more coming through. You look at the likes of Paul Woolston, who has just played for England at the U17s Euros, it is really good to see.
“I play and train with these lads and get to see their ability and it is nice to go away and be able to share an international moment with them.”
The England Under-18s squad will meet-up on Tuesday afternoon in Surrey for three days training before they depart for Moscow on Saturday for next week’s double-header.
