Newcastle will use the enforced break to try to secure the long-term future of in-demand youngster Matty Longstaff. Toon chief Steve Bruce admits he's concerned that the Magpies have yet to agree terms with the 19-year-old, who is already interesting several clubs on the Continent.
Talks between Newcastle and Longstaff's representatives have been dragging on for weeks with little sign of a breakthrough. The 19-year-old is allowed to speak to rival clubs and is prepared to leave his hometown club in the summer if they don't come up with a suitable offer.
But Bruce hopes that a new deal can be thrashed out when the two parties next meet in the coming weeks. Bruce is keeping in regular contact with him, well aware he's seriously considering
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