Matty Longstaff’s goal topped off a superb Premier League debut for the youngster in Newcastle’s great win over Manchester United, who shook off any nerves to put in a man of the match performance.
He could have scored in the first-half, when he hit the crossbar from distance, before finally getting the winner in spectacular fashion late in the game.
But it was not just his shooting that caught the eye, with his non-stop running and ability to close down when not in possession, as well as being able to complete his passes when he did, that also impressed.
The result saw the more junior Longstaff named in BBC Sport’s Garth Crooks’ Premier League team of the week – the only Newcastle player to do so.
But the former Spurs player gave manager Steve Bruce much of the credit for having the “courage” to name the debutant in his starting lineup.
Crooks said: “It was his [Steve Bruce] first managerial win over Manchester United and he called on a young 19-year-old local Geordie lad to do it.
“Matthew Longstaff is the kid. Remember the name. It is not often a manager takes up most of the column inches in my report but on this occasion Bruce deserves it.
“It takes a tremendous amount of courage for a manager to give a young lad his debut against Manchester United when points are in desperate need. Not only did the kid deliver, he scored the winning goal.”
Steve Bruce does deserve credit for brave team selection
To be fair, Crooks is right. I doubted the decision when I first heard the team selection, and called it a desperate call from a manager that has run out of ideas, and trying anything.
But it turned out to be an inspired decision.
The other encouraging thing about Matty’s performance, was how it clearly brought the best out of his older brother, Sean.
Sean has struggled to rediscover last season’s form, and having the obvious familial connection in the middle of the park helped both of them to their top drawer displays.
Let’s hope for more of the same, and Bruce could well have a tough decision to make when Isaac Hayden’s suspension is over.
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