Alan Shearer singled out Newcastle United players Sean Longstaff and Cal Roberts for praise in the 4-2 win over Blackburn on Tuesday.
Both players netted in the FA Cup third round replay at Ewood Park, and both strikes were the duo’s first goals for the Magpies – so Shearer took to his personal Twitter account to signify this club landmark for the two youngsters.
Joselu and Ayoze Perez added to the scoreline to ensure Newcastle’s progression to the next round of the competition, but it was Longstaff and Roberts – who are both 21-years-old – who got recognition from the Match of the Day pundit.
He said: “Congratulations Sean Longstaff and Cal Roberts on scoring your first goals for Newcastle. Well done.”
OPINION
These are two players who are used to playing for the under-23s, so how good must it have felt to score their first goals for the club. Not only were their strikes important on Tuesday, but their overall performances would have surely given Rafa Benitez some food for thought. Roberts was no doubt a surprise inclusion for many fans, but he certainly proved any doubters he had wrong with this display. As for Longstaff, his selection against Chelsea at the weekend has definitely proved him dividends here against Blackburn. He was assured and confident on the ball, and his passing range was excellent in the central midfield. This is why they are so deserving of praise from someone like Shearer, as they both exceeded everyone’s expectations. Yes, they still do have a long way to go in terms of progression – but based on this game, the signs are looking rather good.
