Longstaff contract theory given cold shoulder
STEVE Bruce has dismissed suggestions that he is not playing Matty Longstaff for contractual reasons, writes LEE RYDER.
The midfielder has not started a Premier League match since the 2-2 draw with Everton in January.
Fabian Schar got the nod over Longstaff at Man City and Watford despite injuries to Sean Longstaff and Isaac Hayden.
Bruce was asked if the 20-year-old was being left out over the dispute over a new deal, and replied: “He could do (play vs Spurs) but let’s take the contract aside.
“I played Fabian Schar because of his physicality – they are a huge, powerful team.
“Fab Schar has played there for Switzerland, who are eighth in the world.
“This debate over me not playing Matty is not true.”
The Toon boss was asked further questions on Longtaff’s situation and Bruce added: “Look, I gave the kid his debut.
“He’s had a thigh injury after lockdown and it was severe.
“We have made him a huge offer. It’s up to the boy to commit himself.
“I’m not, not picking him because he hasn’t signed a contract.
“We think a lot of Matty and the ball is in his court.”
UNITED have a small advantage in that they have had a little bit of extra rest going into this game.
But the question is whether they have enough mentally to give to a game of this magnitude.
Spurs arrive on Tyneside fighting for a Europa League spot and on a high after beating North London rivals Arsenal.
If United serve up the same display as they did at Watford in the second half this will be an easy win for Tottenham.
However, if they can show some of the dogged determination that pushed them past 40 points earlier than most people expected they can at least make a fist of this.
THE REFEREE
David Coote (Nottinghamshire) Sent off Sheffield United’s John Egan on his last visit to Tyneside.
CHARITY BET
Miguel Almiron to be an anytime scorer at 5/1.