WITH two weeks to go until the start of the Premier League season, Sean Longstaff is determined to force his way into the starting eleven for the first game.

Newcastle open their Premier League season at St James' Park against West Ham United, who enjoyed a strong campaign last season by finishing sixth in the table.

The 23-year-old from North Shields has emerged through the youth ranks in the last few years and impressed in the first-team with a string of good performances. There was reported interest from Manchester United at the time.

He has gained a lot of experience with over 70 appearances to his name for the Magpies along with four goals but his career took a setback with a long term knee injury in 2019. 

Steve Bruce has said that the club are actively on the lookout for midfielders with Arsenal's Joe Willock top of their transfer list after last season's hugely successful long spell. However, the local lad is hopeful of saving the club a few quid in the transfer market by forcing his way into the starting eleven. 

“I have played a lot of games now. I don’t know if it gets respected as much as it should.

“I don’t know how many other lads my age have played that many games. I can’t control that. I’m just looking to focus on me and have a really good season.

“Get myself in the manager’s plans, I’ve had a pretty strong start to pre-season and the more goals I can score, the more good performances I can put in will help the team and hopefully get me on the pitch.

“I’m really excited for the season."

While Willock remains a top priority for Newcastle, Steve Bruce looks set to lose the race to sign Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher on loan, who's set for a switch to fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace. 

Newcastle return to pre-season action this evening in a friendly against League One Burton Albion, where Joelinton is expected to return after suffering a knock in the defeat to York City nearly a fortnight ago.