Sean Longstaff ruled out of Leeds contest due to injury

Unfortunately, the injury gods have continued to plague Newcastle United down the stretch of the 2022-23 season.

Whether it was forward Alexander Isak heading into 2023, wingers Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron this spring or now, midfielder Sean Longstaff, the team has found ways to defy the odds and succeed without some of their top players.

One thing all four of those players have in common is: they’ve all had career seasons in Newcastle’s European league-clinching campaign. 

Longstaff has been one player that has slightly fallen underneath the rug as his presence on the field is not always noticed. He’s not the player who breaks opposing midfielder’s ankles or sends a screamer into the top left corner of the goal, but instead, one who makes the right places at the right times.

All season he has been praised by Newcastle’s Manager Eddie Howe for his productivity on the pitch, especially since the start of the new year.

“I’ve always said this season he goes under the radar in terms of what he gives the team tactically, technically, and physically,” he said in his most recent press conference. “I think he’s a high-level player. He’s got a really good football brain, so I think we’ve missed those qualities.”

On the season he’s contributed to three goals and an assist over the course of 40 contests, but more importantly, he’s consistently been selfless while running the field. His ability to move the ball up the pitch has been vital for the team’s success offensively.

The injury to him has certainly been noticed in the midfield in his two games missed.

Longstaff picked up his knock in Newcastle’s 4-1 win over Everton just a few games ago and has not played since.

The injury is said to be a big one to his foot, while it is confirmed to not be a break or fracture.

“He went to see a specialist,” said Howe. “I think there were a few concerns that there may be some sort of structural damage in his foot. There wasn’t, which is good news, but there is a bit of damage to one of the ligaments.”

While multiple sources have speculated on whether or not he will be available to return this season, more than likely it is looking like it could be a season-ending injury. Fortunately, the Magpies have just four games remaining including their coming game against Leeds United this weekend.

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With Longstaff out, and others still trying to reach prior form before injury, Newcastle will have to rely on others to step up and show out to keep the team within the top 5 of the Premier League table.