Sean Longstaff gives candid answer on future and thanks Eddie Howe for 'extra' help

Sean Longstaff has opened up about his future at Newcastle United - insisting he wants to stay and that Eddie Howe can take him on to the next level.

In a candid interview, the 24-year-old, who has waited patiently during contract talks after last signing a new deal in 2018, admits that his development at the club suffered before head coach Howe's arrival last year. Longstaff broke into the team in the 2018/19 season under Rafa Benitez and his progress immediately caught the attention of Manchester United.

Now, though, he is keen to progress at St James' Park and continue to improve under Howe. Speaking after the 3-0 win over Norwich, Longstaff said: "All you can do is concentrate on yourself. Ultimately, if you are giving your best and you don't get in the team then you have to accept that.

"But as long as I am doing everything I can do that's the most important thing. There are people here that want to help you improve and get better.

"So when you do get a chance you are ready to step in and put in a good performance. The lads that have played have been excellent.

"I'm not stupid, it's not like they don't deserve it because they do. The whole squad is playing well and that's what happens when you have confidence.

"For me, with the position, we were in it would have been selfish to think about myself and what is going to happen with me in the future on what's going to happen or what's not going to happen. I am just focusing on the best footballer I can be. Hopefully that will be here.

"If it's not then it's not, I am just focused on being the best Sean Longstaff I can be and see where that takes me."

Longstaff's contract talks have been going on since 2019 under Steve Bruce during the Mike Ashley era. With new owners