Sean fits England bill says Rafa

RAFA BENITEZ reckons rising star Sean Longstaff is destined to play for England.

But the Newcastle boss has no intention of pushing his claims too much, insisting the 21-year-old’s career is carefully steered on a course towards international recognition.

Starsport revealed a fortnight ago the Geordie youngster is on Gareth Southgate’s radar and Three Lions Under-21 coach Aidy Boothroyd saw him turn in a man-of-the-match display in the 2-0 win over Huddersfield.

With Mo Diame, Jonjo Shelvey and Ki Sung-yueng all now available, the question was whether or not Longstaff would retain his place in the Toon engine room.

But such has been his impact it’s now a case of who plays alongside Longstaff against Burnley tonight.

Longstaff is set to be included in an England squad next month, having never previously represented his country. Whether it is with the Under-21s or the senior squad, Benitez says he’ll take to it in the same way he has taken to Premier League football since making his debut at Liverpool on Boxing Day.

“He wouldn’t look out of place,” said Benitez, whose side are bidding for a fourth straight home win tonight.

“I like to see my players going to the national team but it has to be the right one.

“If it’s Under-20, 21s or even the senior side, he needs to go one step at a time.

Calm

“Sean is humble, professional and focused. I think there are not too many English players with his quality.”

Benitez was thinking of sending Longstaff on loan to Portsmouth last month, only for a Newcastle injury crisis – and the player’s subsequent form – to change his plans.

Longstaff had successful stints at Kilmarnock and Blackpool in previous seasons but his apprenticeship is now well and truly over.

It was an Under-23 game, watched by Benitez several weeks ago, that persuaded the Toon boss that he had a real talent on his hands.

“He gave an assist for one of the goals and was composed and calm,’’ said Benitez.

“He is someone who, when under pressure, is normally quite calm – and that’s a good thing in a midfielder.

“He still has room for improvement but he is someone who listens and he is learning quickly.”