Steve Bruce sends Matty Longstaff stern warning over new contract | OneFootball

Newcastle boss Steve Bruce has admitted to being ‘concerned’ over Matty Longstaff’s ongoing contract discussions and urged the player to pen a new deal.

The midfielder has burst onto the scene this season, understandably attracting attention from interested parties, particularly after netting a memorable league debut winner against Manchester United.

His current deal is set to expire at the end of the campaign, with the Northern Echo reporting that he has already rejected one extension offer from the club.

But Bruce has warned the teenager to put his own development first and hinted that he could regret it if he opts to exit St James’ Park.

“Of course the situation is a concern,” Bruce said of Longstaff’s contract dilemma.

“I just hope that he looks at it as a football decision. Ultimately, when you’re 19, it is about how you look after your career rather than anything else.

“I’m sure there are distractions and people in his ear. I hope he just looks at it as a football career.

“At the end of the day, if you have a successful career, money will find you. That’s always been my philosophy on it.

“He’s a 19-year-old who has done very well. Tell me another 19-year-old who’s played in the Premier League this year? There’s not many.

“I’ve made big decisions around him and left people out to play him. I hope he finds a conclusion with the club, I really do.

“We all want him to stay, but players have this prerogative. Of course, it’s a concern, but we can only do what we can do.”

Longstaff may take inspiration from experienced Magpies stars Jonjo Shelvey and Matt Ritchie, who both committed their long-term future to the club last week.