Newcastle United’s youngsters were edged out by Barcelona in the UEFA Youth League on Thursday.
Kacey Wooster is targeting more minutes with Newcastle United’s under-21s after scoring against Barcelona.
Adam Lawrence led an under-19s outfit into the UEFA Youth League opener at Whitley Park hours ahead of the senior side’s 2-1 defeat.
The young Magpies were unfancied and heading for a hiding, with Barcelona boasting a three-goal advantage at half-time.
However, Newcastle struck back through Leo Shahar and Wooster to set up a grandstand finish. Sean Neave – a player who has been in and around Eddie Howe’s first team – came within inches of snatching a dramatic draw at the death.
‘Under-21s the aim’ – Kacey Wooster
Speaking to NewcastleWorld post-match, Wooster set his sights on more under-21s football. He has three goals in as many games for the under-18s and played 10 minutes for the under-21s against Chelsea last month.
“I’m progressing nicely, getting in around the under-21, so I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep doing what I’m doing,” Wooster said. “That’s got to be the aim. You’ve got to aim high.
No fear about Barcelona
It could have been easy for Newcastle to expect a hiding against one of the world’s best academies. However, young striker Wooster relished the challenge on home soil.
“(There was) no fear,” he added. “It was a good opportunity to showcase yourself against the best teams in Europe. It is a proud moment (scoring against Barcelona).
Adam just said, ‘Be yourself and that’s what you’ve got to do. You’re there for a reason, he said, you’re in the squad for a reason, so be yourself and play your game and everything sorts itself out’.
“(It was) a bit surreal, but unfortunate with the result. It’s best to come up against the best and test yourself. It is what it is. We’ve got to put things right next game.”
Kacey Wooster profile
Wooster has shown a ruthless streak in front of goal so far this season. On his playing style, he said: “I’m a good finisher and runs in behind, holds the ball. I feel like I can bring a lot, but I’ve just got to showcase that on a regular basis.”
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Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
