Speaking on Match of the Day 2, BBC pundit Martin Keown has compared Newcastle hero Matty Longstaff to Paul Scholes following his heroic display in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Manchester United.
The former Arsenal defender revealed how he played more passes and covered more ground than any other Newcastle player, claiming both he and his brother Sean are now the ‘important ingredient’ in Steve Bruce’s Newcastle side.
Here’s what he had to say during his appearance on MOTD2 last night:
“The young lad should be knocking on Steve Bruce’s door and saying ‘Why didn’t you play me sooner?!’
“He played more passes, covered more distance and really put in a performance.
“It was like a Paul Scholes. I know they’re big boots to fill but him and his brother were like Scholes and Carrick.
“They’re the important ingredient in this Newcastle team now.”
We’ve seen Sean get compared to Michael Carrick – and you can see why with his upright and effortless style on the ball – but Matty being compared to Scholes is a new one and some compliment indeed.
He looked fearless in possession and unfazed by the occasions, spraying passes into wide areas and having two brilliant long range strikes, with one clipping the bar and the other being smashed past De Gea in the second half.
His technique for his goal was very Scholes-esque and yet another moment that’s displayed his ability to score goals – something I didn’t think he had in him.
His endless energy off the ball was outstanding, with his mix of application and ability giving him the tools to really make it on Tyneside.
Hopefully he can keep his head down and go from strength to strength alongside his brother in the middle of midfield.
What a story. Let’s hope this is only the start!
