Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confident of Longstaff, Almiron futures at club

NEWCASTLE: Eddie Howe believes the opportunity is there for both Sean Longstaff and Miguel Almiron to cement their long-term futures at Newcastle United.

Paraguayan Almiron is expected to start Sunday afternoon’s Premier League encounter with Leicester City at St. James’ Park, with Ryan Fraser’s hamstring problem likely to keep him out.

Longstaff, on the other hand, is almost certain to remain on the bench due to the form of the likes of Bruno Guimaraes in the United midfield.

Howe thinks Almiron, linked with a move to La Liga this summer, and Longstaff, whose current United deal comes to an end in June, both have a future at Newcastle and are valued. However, it’s up to the duo to prove that to the public when handed the chance in the club’s final seven games of the Premier League campaign.

“That’s wbeen no way a reflection of Miggy,” Howe said when asked about Almiron’s lack of starts.

“It’s probably been a reflection of Ryan and Maxi (Allan Saint-Maximin), who have done very well in the wide areas.

“Miggy is a player we really like; he’s got a very infectious attitude. He works extremely hard, and I thought he did really well when he came on against Wolves; he gave us a different dimension. He ran in behind and pressed very well.

“I’d love Miggy to go on a successful run and do really well. He’s trained very well behind the scenes, and his attitude has been excellent from day one since we came. I’m hopeful. If there is an opportunity for him, he can really grasp it.”

Howe accepts the time will come when Longstaff will become frustrated with his lack of game time at United, especially when he’s delivered when called upon, most recently at Stamford Bridge.

The head coach does not think that time is yet upon