How is Matty Longstaff's move to Toronto FC viewed in Newcastle United circles?
Although he only played 20 games for the Magpies, Longstaff had a special place in the hearts of Newcastle United fans.
Matty Longstaff is hoping a move to MLS will help get his once promising career back on rack.
Longstaff, 23, signed with Toronto FC last week after spending the previous four seasons at hometown club Newcastle United where he scored three goals in 20 matches in all competitions. He netted his first goal for the Magpies when he scored the winner against Manchester United, marking his Premier League debut in style on Oct. 6, 2019, at St James’ Park.
Longstaff came up through the youth ranks at Newcastle where he played in the first team alongside his brother Sean. During his time with the Magpies, the midfielder went on loan to Scottish club Aberdeen FC, as well as with EFL League Two sides Mansfield Town and Colchester United. He suffered a serious knee injury during a six-month loan at Colchester. He returned to Newcastle to undergo rehab and recover from this setback, before being released by the Premier League club last summer. As such, he hasn't played a competitive game in 15 months.
UK-based reporter Scott Wilson covers Newcastle United for The Northern Echo newspaper. In this one-on-one interview with TFC Republic, Wilson discusses how Longstaff's transfer to Toronto FC has been viewed in Newcastle United's circles, the midfielder's time with the Magpies, whether he'll be missed by local fans, and much more.
This Q&A has been lightly edited and trimmed for brevity and clarity.
