Sean Longstaff is set to feature for Newcastle United in their deciding Champions League fixture at home to AC Milan.
Sean Longstaff of Newcastle United appears to have confirmed his inclusion in the squad for tonight’s Champions League Group F decider against AC Milan (kick-off 8pm).
An ankle injury suffered in the 2-0 defeat at AFC Bournemouth prior to the international break kept the 26-year-old out of games against Chelsea, PSG, Manchester United, and Everton before making his comeback as a substitute in Sunday’s 4-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur.
Longstaff’s participation in tonight’s game against Milan was called into question after he was not seen by TV cameras in training on Tuesday. Eddie Howe did little to allay the fans’ anxieties at the time.
When asked if anything should be read into the absences of Anthony Gordon and Martin Dubravka, Howe said, “Yes and no, you can read whatever you want into it.”
“We’re two days after a game, so obviously we’re trying to manage players, and we’ll see who’s available for tomorrow.” I’ve only given you nothing!”
Longstaff appears to have confirmed his position in the matchday squad by posting on X “let’s make this one count” as Howe remained typically cautious.
Longstaff is set to make his first appearance at St James’ Park since the 1-0 win against Arsenal on November 4. Before missing last month’s 1-1 draw in Paris, the Geordie midfielder had started every Champions League encounter.
To qualify for the final 16 of the Champions League, Newcastle must beat Milan and hope PSG loses at Dortmund.
United will qualify for the Europa League if they avoid defeat against the Serie A giants, while a loss will see them depart Europe entirely.
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