Sean Longstaff has 'knuckled down' to become the ideal midfield partner for the likes of Bruno Guimaraes at Newcastle United. That is the view of former Magpies defender Warren Barton, who believes Eddie Howe's side miss the academy graduate's 'personality' when he does not play.
Competition for places in Newcastle's engine room is now fierce, with Jonjo Shelvey returning from a long-term injury to give the head coach five options for three spots. However, Longstaff has featured in all of United's Premier League matches so far and has started the last eight top-flight fixtures.
The former Blackpool and Kilmarnock loanee made his senior breakthrough under Rafa Benitez, but had become a peripheral figure in recent seasons due to injuries and a loss of form. Barton believes Longstaff now looks 'fitter', and as a result has been praised for his industry in his recent performances.
