Newcastle United news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Sean Longstaff verdict after ‘shock’ update
Kevin Campbell has claimed the renewal of Sean Longstaff’s contract could be “massive” for Newcastle as the new regime press on with their “grand visions” for the club.
The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the “home-grown” 24-year-old could prove important in maintaining a “real connection” with the Magpies fans.
Longstaff, who joined Newcastle as a nine-year-old, has made 11 Premier League starts this term.
According to The Times (11 March), the Magpies are in talks with the midfielder about a new contract – with his current terms set to expire in June.
The report claims Eddie Howe and senior figures at Newcastle are “eager” for the former Blackpool loanee to stay at St James’ Park.
Campbell claimed the talks may have come as a “shock” to Longstaff.
“I think home-grown players are going to be so important for a club like Newcastle,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“To have that player in the squad, and that real connection to the fans with one of their own will be massive.
“He was probably expecting to leave the club at the end of the season – so this may well have come as a bit of a shock to him.
“Eddie Howe has probably had a look at him and decided he could be a useful player to keep around.
“If the vision at Newcastle is as grand as we expect, they’re going to be playing a lot of games. Everyone will get their opportunities.”
Premier League clubs must name at least eight home-grown players in their 25-man squad.
Longstaff meets this quota having spent at least three seasons training at a professional English or Welsh club before the age of 21.
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