Matty Longstaff looks certain to start his first competitive game for Newcastle in the Carabao Cup second round tie against Leicester City at St James’ Park.
Having made an impression on new Toon manager Steve Bruce during pre-season, and even scoring his first Newcastle goal at the Gallowgate End in the friendly against St Etienne, he is likely to be handed a key role for the cup tie.
After his brother Sean burst onto the footballing scene so dramatically last season, Matty may feel he is under a bit of pressure to do similar this season.
Of course, the circumstances are different, while Sean was thrust into the starting lineup almost from desperation for numbers, Matty is getting his opportunity due to his own form from pre-season.
Can Matty Longstaff emulate his brother Sean’s exploits from last season?
He will hope to take his chance against Leicester, and there is no reason why he cannot do well, and give Steve Bruce a selection headache ahead of Watford on Saturday.
Matty has almost sneaked under the radar, with all the recent focus having been on Sean, but he deserves his opportunity, and he will have every Newcastle fan hoping he can emulate his brother, and become a first team regular.
Injury issues mean changes are enforced for the tie, but it would be hard to argue that Matty would not have started anyway, with his patience being rewarded.
Let’s hope he puts in a great performance and, who knows, he may grab a goal and become the new local hero.
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