OPINION
It has been a wild ride for the Longstaff family in the past year at Newcastle United.
Sean Longstaff broke into the Magpies’ set-up last season under Rafael Benitez when the midfielder made eight consecutive starts before an injury cut his Premier League campaign short.
The holding midfielder came straight back into the fold at the beginning of the season, with Steve Bruce keeping faith in the youngster.
On Wednesday evening, Newcastle welcomed Leicester to St James’ Park, and the Longstaff influence grew as Matty Longstaff joined his brother by making his full debut for the club.
Not many siblings play for the same club at the same point of their career, and the older brother, Sean, has been given the ultimate credit by Magpies’ legend Paul Gascoigne.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Gazza explained how impressed he is with the way the 21-year-old plays in the middle of the park, whilst tipping him for an England call-up soon.
“He looks like a great young player coming through. I like the way he plays – he never stops running, he can pick a pass as well,” he said.
“Gareth Southgate will pick the young players and so Sean’s got a chance. I like the way England are playing now, they’re playing some good football and it’s a pleasure to see what Gareth’s done.”
Newcastle fans will surely agree with Gazza’s words on Longstaff and will have their fingers crossed that he gains the international recognition that they think he deserves.
Longstaff has impressed early on this season, averaging 1.7 tackles per game, as well as 0.7 clearances [WhoScored] – helping his defence out when they need it.
On top of that, the 21-year-old also gets forward when he is required too and has delivered a single assist despite his 72% passing success rate [WhoScored].
Newcastle fans will be salivating over the potential of Longstaff, with Gascoigne’s remarks surely only adding fuel to the fire.
