Howe says Longstaff HAS been good enough to earn a place in England squad

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says Sean Longstaff has proven himself good enough to win a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.

Howe and the Three Lions chief have a good relationship and the latter spoke at length this week about how impressed he has been with Newcastle this season.

Only Kieran Trippier is part of his current squad - Callum Wilson has a hamstring concern - but the likes of Longstaff, Anthony Gordon and Dan Burn have all been touted for inclusion.

Midfielder Longstaff, 25, returned to the team after injury six games ago and the Magpies are unbeaten since then, winning five of those matches.

The academy graduate has won recognition from supporters, team-mates and his manager for the impact he has made, and Howe believes elevation to the international scene is the next step.

‘I haven’t spoken with Sean in any great detail about the England squad or his dreams and aims but I’d encourage it for him because I think he is good enough,’ said Howe.

‘I think he’s got everything depending on what system you want to play but for us, he perfectly fits the No.8 role that we’re using him in. I’d love to see him score more goals and get in more goalscoring positions because I think he is a very good finisher - you saw the other night with a really good goal against PSG, so hopefully there’s more to come from him. But he’s certainly done very well at the start of this season.’

Howe added: ‘He’d certainly be up there as one of the fittest midfielders in the league. The game the other night he covered every blade, he does that consistently.

‘What I love about Sean is it’s not just one game and then he goes flat, hopefully not anyway! He’s been very consistent with his work ethic and the distances he hits. When you’re managing