Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles has praised the impact of Matty Longstaff in a recent interview with Sky Sports.
Lascelles revealed he was “over the moon” for the younger of the two Longstaff’s and had nothing but kind words to say about the 19-year-old.
Lascelles, who is rated at £16.2m, spoke of Matty’s work rate and energy and also the fact he is a genuine lad.
The 25-year-old Toon captain was also delighted to see a player rise up from the academy to assume his place in the first team and make a real statement to the other players.
Lascelles always speaks well, and even when he doesn’t perform to his best, his leadership skills and organisation of the defence are crucial to Newcastle.
It is nice to see him speak so positively about Matty, and that can only boost the 19-year-old’s confidence.
The Longstaff’s should continue their partnership on Saturday against a Chelsea side who could be without N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic.
The two dominated Manchester United’s midfield but can they turn in a similar performance against a Chelsea side who are in good form.
Certainly, Lascelles’ comments should make Matty think that he can.