Jonjo keen on a link-up with Sean

JONJO Shelvey admits he is excited by the prospect of playing alongside young midfield star Sean Longstaff.

Longstaff has grabbed his chance with both hands to win praise from respected pundits like Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Jamie Redknapp.

He is also being closely tracked by the England Under-21s.

When asked about Longstaff’s remarkable progress, Shelvey, speaking from United’s HQ in Spain, said: “I would love to play with him eventually.

“He has been outstanding. Being honest, it is hard to watch someone go into your position and do well.

“It is hard but, at the end of the day, they are still your mates as well. I cannot speak highly enough of Longy – he has been tremendous.

“He is so composed for such a young lad. He plays like he has been there and done it all.

“He is going to have a fantastic career ahead of him and I am more than happy for him to keep continuing playing.”

Longstaff’s form is so good at the moment, it feels like the argument has switched from whether the young Geordie should play to exactly who should play alongside him.

Shelvey added: “He has been one of the best team players in the last three or four games.

“Me, Ki, Momo, Isaac and Longy are all going to be fighting for two spots or three spots if the gaffer changes formation, so it is going to be an interesting end to the season.”