Matty focused on football and United after making breakthrough

Matty Longstaff is ready to commit his future to Newcastle United.

The midfielder scored against Manchester United on his Premier League debut last weekend.

Longstaff’s goal gave Newcastle a 1-0 win at St James’s Park – and lifted the club out of the relegation zone.

The teenager, the younger brother of Sean, also a midfielder, was handed his debut after impressing head coach Steve Bruce in training.

“It is great to see a local kid play alongside his brother,” said Bruce, whose side take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on October 19.

“They will have bumps on the roads before we can say they’re fully established, but the two have made a big statement.”

Longstaff is under contract until the end of the season, and the club is looking to secure him on a longterm deal.

The 19-year-old, however, insists that he’s focused on his football.

“Obviously, I want to stay at Newcastle,” said Longstaff.

“But the biggest thing for me is just to carry on playing well, and that will take care of itself.”

England Under-21 boss Aidy Boothroyd has confirmed Matty is on the radar for a call-up – but hinted the player needs more game time at Newcastle United to get the nod.

“We are certainly aware of him. It’s a little bit early,” said Boothroyd.

“There are one or two who have been at it for a period of time. That’s not to say he won’t get in because I’ve been to see him.

“Last week was brilliant it was great to see and great for football I thought. The whole crowd connected with it.

“He’s up against some good players in Tom Davies, Joe Willock, Phil Foden and Oliver Skipp. There is some talent there – it’s a tough area to break into.”

Meanwhile, a new contract for Sean Longstaff – who was a summer transfer target for Man United – has been on the agenda at St James’s Park since March, when the 21-year-old’s first run in the team was brought to an end by a season-ending knee injury.

Longstaff signed a new deal keeping him at the club until 2022 late last year before establishing himself at Premier League level.