Steve Bruce names Newcastle United player who could start against Manchester City

Longstaff is available for this afternoon’s home game against Manchester City after serving a ban for his dismissal against Wolverhampton Wanderers in late October. And the 22-year-old is set to be recalled to Bruce’s team.

Longstaff’s young sibling Matty – who hasn’t featured since the Wolves game – is also in Bruce’s thoughts ahead of a tough run of festive games. Both are in talks over new deals at the club.

Asked if there was a case for playing both Longstaffs, head coach Bruce said: “Possibly. I'll be using the squad.

“We've played 14 times now, and I've been here four months. All of a sudden we've got seven games in 30 days or so, it's a hell of an ask. It's non-stop, so I will use the squad. It's good to see Longy back from his suspension.”