Sean Longstaff says Newcastle have a ‘little superstar’ coming through their ranks now

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Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff is confident that the club can cope with the imminent absence of Sandro Tonali.

The 23-year-old is being investigated by the Italian Football Federation for betting, and looks set to receive a ban. It has been claimed that he could miss the rest of the season.

Losing Sandro Tonali for such a long period of time is a huge blow for Newcastle United, but it will give other players the chance to step up and fill the void.

The timing of Joe Willock’s return from injury is ideal, while we have seen Elliot Anderson have a much bigger role this season.

Another player who could benefit is Lewis Miley, and Longstaff is keen to see the 17-year-old get more minutes under his belt.

Sean Longstaff wants Lewis Miley to play more for Newcastle

Ahead of Newcastle’s Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund, Longstaff spoke to the media. He was asked if the Magpies have enough midfield options to cope with Tonali’s impending absence.

“Obviously we’ve got the little superstar in Lewis Miley coming through who I absolutely love,” he said.

“Hopefully he can get a few more minutes.”

Newcastle have their own ‘little superstar’

While it is sad to know that Tonali is likely going to miss a lot of football, it could present players like Miley an opportunity.

The teenager was exceptional during pre-season, dazzling the likes of Bruno Guimaraes as he held his own against senior Premier League players.

His performances in the summer led to him making his first ever Toon start earlier this season, playing the first 45 minutes during the Carabao Cup win over Manchester City.

While that was not his best night, his potential is clear for all to see. Newcastle have a very special player in their ranks, and Eddie Howe must carefully nurture him as he continues his development.

At the age of 17, Miley will not be a direct replacement for Tonali. However, his imminent ban will hopefully lead to the youngster getting more minutes. Despite his form in pre-season, he is yet to feature on the bench for a Premier League game since the 2023/24 campaign kicked off.

But Longstaff is eager to see the youngster get more senior experience under his belt, as Miley aims to become the ‘superstar’ that everyone thinks he can be.