Steve Bruce reveals why he left Matty Longstaff out of Newcastle United's final game

Steve Bruce is still hoping that Matty Longstaff hasn’t played his final game for Newcastle United.

The midfielder, out of contract this summer, watched yesterday’s season-ending 3-1 defeat to Liverpool from a box at St James's Park.

Newcastle have made their final contract offer to the 20-year-old – who is wanted by Udinese – and Bruce was asked if his future was dependent on a takeover.

“I hope he stays one way or the other, whether there’s a takeover or not,” said United’s head coach. “I don’t think the takeover’s going to influence that.

"Matty hurt his thigh. He’s had problems with that since he came back, so I was never going to risk him. Thankfully his brother (Sean) was OK, but I don’t think Matty Longstaff’s situation will depend on whether there’s going to be a takeover or not. I’m still hoping he’ll still be a Newcastle player when I come back.”