Former Blackpool manager Gary Bowyer has been speaking with NUFC.co.uk about his admiration for Toon starlet Sean Longstaff. Bowyer spent two years at Blackpool before his resignation after last seasons campaign in League 1, with young Longstaff making 45 Appearances (scoring 9 goals and making 6 assists). A very impressive return for a midfielder at a very respectable level - ask Sunderland fans 😘.

Here's what Bowyer told NUFC.co.uk:

“He had a fabulous year for me, for the club and obviously for himself and Newcastle.

“He came in and scored some wonderful goals – you put some of them on Twitter! He’s got fantastic ability and he’s a fantastic lad as well.

“He wants to get better and that was the big thing about him; he was always looking to improve, always in the office looking at his clips for ways he could get better.

“Personally, as a coach and as a manager, I’m delighted to see the progress he’s made in pre-season.

“I was fortunate enough to be in Nottingham two weeks ago and watched him make his debut there.

“The last time I saw one of the players that I’d worked with make his debut was Phil Jones, at Forest ironically, so if he can go and do what Phil Jones has done then he’ll be alright!

“But on a serious note, he’s got a lot of talent and he’s got a good family behind him that really support him and push him.

“And working with Rafa Benítez, he’s got a great opportunity to improve his game even further now.

“Hopefully he breaks through and becomes a regular for Newcastle.” I had the misfortune of paying for the debacle of pre-season friendly streams this summer, but I did get to see Longstaff and a few other youngsters blooded. Sean impressed massively along with Cal Roberts, in my opinion. I think both lads can do more than just a job this season. For example, I'd pick Longstaff over Hayden with his personal issues at present and Cal Roberts over Manquillo any-day.I have also been impressed with Adam Wilson too, although his stature might limit his level like Dwight Gayle.

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*Picture/Photo courtesy of Chronicle Live

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