Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has been left very impressed by midfielder Sean Longstaff in training.
As relayed by The Independent, the Toon boss was full of praise for the 25-year-old after his side came away with a 2-1 victory over Southampton last night, which will now see them advance through to the Carabao Cup final.
“Sean’s just a really level-headed lad. He loves the club, he’s Newcastle through and through,” Howe said.
“I’m so pleased that he’s got the headlines tonight. The two goals were great finishes.
“His all-round performances this season have been excellent. He’s getting the rewards for what I saw last year.
“He didn’t play for me initially but behind the scenes, I saw a player that was really committed to his training, really wanted to improve, so I’m delighted now he’s getting the rewards for that.”
Longstaff was Newcastle’s hero
The Newcastle local was the Magpies’ unlikely hero last night as he bagged an early double, setting his side firmly on course for their first major final since the 1999 FA Cup.
Thus far this season, the midfielder has made 27 appearances under Howe. Starting 16 of his 20 appearances in the Premier League, the 25-year-old has become a crucial part of the squad.
This is somewhat of a surprise, given he played just 26 times for the Tyneside outfit over the course of last season.
However, he is more than deserving of his place in the starting XI. Longstaff has proven he adds to the side both offensively and defensively, with his energy in the middle of the park a constant threat for the Toon.
Hopefully the player will get the chance to start in the final, with the opportunity to help his boyhood club end their 54-year trophy drought.