Garang Kuol had interest from other 'massive clubs' but the Australian wonderkid wanted to join Newcastle United as soon as he knew the Magpies were in for him.
That is according to Central Coast Mariners boss Nick Montgomery, who admitted the A-League side will miss the talented 18-year-old most 'as a person' when he moves to Newcastle in January. Kuol has enjoyed a meteoric rise with the Mariners, scoring four goals in his opening seven games for the club, and those performances led to the forward being called up to the A-League All-Stars last May. We all know what happened next; Kuol's stunning cameo against Barcelona went viral and the teenager went on to become the youngest player to ever represent Australia before completing his move to Newcastle just a few days later.
That remarkable journey has been documented by A-Leagues All Access, who capture Kuol's team-mates chanting: 'Toon Army!' at the youngster on his first day back at Central Coast after joining Newcastle. Some of those at the club even nicknamed Kuol 'Santiago' in reference to the lead character in the film 'Goal!'
READ MORE: Everything changes at Newcastle as players get emotional at training ground
Montgomery is interviewed on a number of occasions during the mini documentary and the former Sheffield United midfielder predicted that Kuol could be 'as good as anyone in the world' because he has 'assets that some of the best players' have.
"My advice to Garang is keep your feet on the ground, stay humble," he said. "It's just inspirational for every kid in Australia. He had massive clubs contacting him and, as soon as he knew Newcastle were interested, he wanted to go to Newcastle United. Ultimately, it's down to him, the work he puts in, and staying humble."
READ NEXT
Bruno Guimaraes makes promise to Newcastle supporters as he addresses Real Madrid transfer talk
Newcastle launch search for new addition to help increase transfer funds and provide FFP boost
Newcastle hire can help prevent FFP disaster after 'unbelievable talent dumped' in Ashley era
Newcastle owners get bonus with Eddie Howe move and Chelsea raided for unannounced addition
Ashley Young hits out at Newcastle decision vs Aston Villa and reveals what referee told him
