Longstaff full of praise for Howe’s man-management skills

SEAN Longstaff has spoken of Eddie Howe’s superb knack of keeping squad members who are not in the Newcastle United team focused this season.

In the past at United, there have been cases of unrest from players who were not getting game-time but Longstaff has credited Howe for his man-management in a season in which the midfielder has not been a guaranteed pick.

Howe has done his best to keep Longstaff involved and he also keen for him to agree a four-year deal.

The 24-year-old was rotated for the 1-0 loss to Liverpool, having played his part in a 3-0 win at Norwich a week earlier.

He must now wait to see how much football he gets in Sunday’s tough trip to Manchester City.

When asked about his relationship with Howe, Longstaff said: “He has been brilliant, the gaffer. You can ask anybody in the changing room.

“Just the way he has gone about his business, he is someone you want to play for. When you are not playing it can become easy to lose interest but not under this manager or staff.

“They have everyone together, pulling in the same direction.

“No matter where people play position-wise, everyone is ready to run through brick walls for them.”

Longstaff has started just 12 Premier League games from 35 matches so far.

The club offered him a new deal but the midfielder is also eager to gain assurances on a game plan.

At his age it is easy to understand that Longstaff wants to play regular football. The Geordie has 75 top-flight appearances to his name in the Premier League for his boyhood club.