Newcastle United have so many leaders right now, and another one emerged against Manchester United on Wednesday night.
Eddie Howe was able to mastermind a famous Carabao Cup victory at Old Trafford, as his makeshift XI won 3-0 to advance to the quarter finals.
It ended up being a very special night for Newcastle, but that was always going to be the case for Sean Longstaff no matter the result.
The 26-year-old was named in Howe’s lineup, making his 150th appearance for the club. That is an incredible achievement, having made his debut back in 2018 when Rafa Benitez was manager.
Fast forward five years and he has hit 150 appearances, and he marked the milestone by captaining his boyhood club.
Longstaff was given the armband against Manchester United, in the absence of Jamaal Lascelles and Kieran Trippier.
It must have been a special moment for Longstaff to lead the team out, and Eddie Howe has now explained why he was given the captaincy on Wednesday night.
Eddie Howe says Sean Longstaff ‘deserved’ to be captain
Following the win over Manchester United, Howe spoke to NUFC TV. He was asked why Longstaff was named captain for the game.
“I felt he deserved it,” he said.
“I thought long and hard about the decision, as you do every decision when you’re in my shoes, because that’s a huge thing to wear the armband for Newcastle should never underestimated. It’s an honour and a privilege and with it comes a weight.
“But Sean has acted unbelievably since I have been at the football club but he has also led and is starting to lead and it was a recognition of that. I think he is a leader for the here and now and for the future but really it’s down to his conduct and how he approaches the game.”
Longstaff proves he is captain material for Newcastle
Based on Howe’s comments, this might not be the last time we see Longstaff captain Newcastle.
It was a surprise to see him given the armband at Old Trafford. There would have been no complaints if it had gone to a more senior player like Paul Dummett or Matt Ritchie.
But Howe felt that Longstaff deserved the opportunity, and he took it with both hands. It was a professional display from the academy graduate, who is enjoying a brilliant season so far.
He has already experienced so many highs, but it will be interesting to hear if he thinks captain Newcastle to a win over Man United is better than scoring in front of the Gallowgate against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
