Since that wonderful strike against Manchester United back in October 19, we've yet to see the best of Matty Longstaff and what this young man is able to produce. Huge debate has come in to whether or not a reshuffle is needed in that central midfield for Newcastle and with Issac Hayden now sidelined for the rest of the season, it may be that Steve Bruce's hand will be forced.
What us Newcastle faithful are dreading however is the reintroduction of Jeff Hendrick due to the lack of input he has on games. He may be a more physical presence (slightly!) than young Matty, but his ability on the ball is both spiritless and featureless. With our more experienced holding player missing I fear this will be the route Bruce will go for Sunday's game against Spurs and with Joe Willock the only midfielder in that three who shows legs and pace, it could be an easy afternoon for those in the middle of the park for Jose's team. However if we do slot Matty in there it may be worth playing two further up in the middle with Fernandes potentially in that holding role. He's a man with experience and one of the better centre-halves we have on the ball, and it will allow both Willock and Matty to have a better chance to push forward. This would mean dropping Jonjo Shelvey and changing it up which I think is one of pure hope than realism.
As much as I believe Jonjo Shelvey has the talent and the ability on the ball, his performances as of late have been poor and his passing game has been a real issue since the start of the campaign. Matty Longstaff every time I've seen him has shown commitment, energy and looks far more comfortable on the ball than his older brother who again similar to Jonjo, has been poor really since Rafa Benitez departed. Since Matty's potential transfer to Udinese last summer he's only featured in five games this season and although injured he's spent the majority of time with the under 23's. The concern most Newcastle fans have at this time is the lack of progression within the squad, but we are now in a situation where we need to take risks with the personnel as those in the team at the moment are not giving anything bar lackluster displays.
Giving Matty Longstaff this opportunity may be a turning point in his career and now he has had game time with the reserves, I would hope with the natural ability he has this can be a starting point and a chance for him to cement his position within the starting eleven once more.
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