Steve Bruce reveals his view on Sean Longstaff's return to Newcastle United's starting XI

Allan Saint-Maximin took the headlines after yesterday’s 2-1 win over Burnley. Saint-Maximin set up a goal for Jacob Murphy before scoring himself to claim all three points for the relegation-threatened club.

However, Longstaff – who had returned to the starting XI a week earlier after a two-month spell out of the team following January’s 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane – also impressed along with Murphy and Martin Dubravka, who made a number of important saves at Turf Moor.

Asked about the 23-year-old’s performance, head coach Steve Bruce said: “Certainly, he’s played very, very well. I was very pleased with him.

"He’s had a good week. He played very well coming back. This is what we wanted him to do. I’m pleased for him. He had to wait, be patient. He’s seen Joe Willock arrive (on loan from Arsenal). He’s took on the baton, good for him.”

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor