10 Things Newcastle Fans Need To Know About Portland Timbers 2

7. Liam Ridgewell Is A Member Of Their Squad... And Is One Of Their Star Players

Although he is highly unlikely to make an appearance for Timbers 2, one player Newcastle fans will be familiar with for Portland is Liam Ridgewell. The former Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion defender moved Stateside in 2014 - although he did return for a temporary loan at Wigan Athletic earlier this year. At 30 years of age, Ridgewell seems to be enjoying life in the Northwest Pacific. However, three key players Newcastle fans should be looking out for are: Jake Gleeson (goalkeeper) - The eight-cap New Zealand international stopper is currently on loan from the Timbers' first team and he has been impressive for the reserves, just as he was while at Sacramento Republic (Newcastle's most-recent opponents) last season. The 25-year-old 6ft 4in goalkeeper will be the final obstacle between the Magpies and the back of the net, and he will not be an easy one to overcome. Andy Thoma (defender/midfielder) - Another player currently on loan from the Timbers' first team, the versatile Thoma can play in defence or in midfield. The 22-year-old moved to Portland from the Washington Crossfire and has quickly establish himself as one of the USL side's top performers, being almost ever-present in their league side. Kharlton Belmar (forward) - The 22-year-old forward spent time at Mississippi Brilla before moving to Timbers 2 in 2014 and he has bagged an impressive nine goals in just 18 league games to date. Cut from the camp despite being drafted into the second round of the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, Belmar has a real eye for goal. Other notable names to watch out for include: Taylor Peay (defender) Danny O'Rourke (defender) Tim Payne (midfielder) Blair Gavin (midfielder) Brent Richards (forward)