Matty Longstaff should replace Jonjo Shelvey for Newcastle’s final three games – opinion

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Now that Newcastle are safe from relegation, Steve Bruce can experiment.

Throughout the season we’ve seen a variety of systems and players used by Bruce, with varying degrees of success.

But one constant has been Jonjo Shelvey. The midfielder has started 26 Premier League games this season – more than anyone else.

But he has been heavily criticised by fans, with Shelvey much less influential in possession.

And with Premier League safety confirmed, Bruce should use this opportunity to try someone else in Shelvey’s role.

Will Matty Longstaff get a chance?

Matty Longstaff certainly deserves more football.

The Longstaff brothers have struggled for minutes this season. Sean did return to the starting XI after the Brighton humiliation, but Matty hasn’t featured since the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in January.

The 21-year-old has only made five Premier League appearances all season.

He came into the starting XI over Christmas, making his first start of the season away to Manchester City on Boxing Day.

Despite losing 2-0, Longstaff was impressive. He was keen to get on the ball, and provided energy to try and disrupt Man City’s rhythm.

His performance kept him in the team for the next two games against Liverpool and Leicester.

The youngest Longstaff brother certainly has a bright future, but isn’t getting enough first-team football under Bruce.

He deserves a chance in the final three games. Bruce has nothing to lose, as Newcastle are safe.

If Longstaff impresses, he will have proven that he can play a role next season. It would also likely save Newcastle some money in the transfer market.

If he struggles, then he can be sent out on loan next season to the Championship to get more experience.

Newcastle have some talented young players just waiting for a chance to prove their worth. Matty Longstaff is no different.

He burst onto the scene last season with his winner against Manchester United, but has never been a consistent starter for the Magpies.

He nearly left last summer, which would have been a disaster.

But with so little football this season, Longstaff may wonder if he should have left after all.

Bruce is clearly a big fan of Shelvey, but with three games remaining and nothing to play for, it is time for something different.

Matty Longstaff deserves a chance, starting against Manchester City on Friday night.