Matty Longstaff has been the man of the moment at Newcastle since his 20 yard drive found the net against Manchester United on a spectacular debut.
So it was little surprise to hear Steve Bruce confirm that the youngster will keep his place in the starting lineup at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
In his press conference today, the Chronicle report Bruce said: “How could I leave him out?
“It’s been quite refreshing for all of us. That’s why I picked him. His TV interview showed that humility.
“Now I will look to protect and nurture him. With young kids he now has to handle all that comes his way, and we have to help him.
“I don’t think I have witnessed as good of a debut as that. He was terrific.”
It would have been a huge shock if the Newcastle midfield had not contained both Longstaffs, and although Bruce did not confirm Sean’s starting place, it is a foregone conclusion that he will.
There is no doubt having Matty alongside him, brought the best out of Sean, and it gave Newcastle fans a glimpse of what the future holds, should the club manage to get them both to agree new contracts.
Bruce confirms talks for new deals for both Longstaffs
The Chronicle report Matty is only on £850 a week currently, and a new deal is in the offing.
Bruce confirmed: “Lee [Charnley] will be on to that, I am sure we will be all out to get that tied up, and his brother, which is vitally important.
“The one thing you don’t want to do is lose your top young players.”
Keeping them both at the club will be a boost for everyone, and now that he has shown what he is capable of, having Matty available on the long-term, gives Bruce much more midfield options.
Having Matty involved brings the best out of his brother, and will Hayden to excel in order to get his place back, then keep it. The only winners from that scenario will be Newcastle United.
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