Blackpool see off interest to extend Longstaff loan

Scunthorpe chairman Peter Swann recently confirmed the Lincolnshire outfit were monitoring the midfielder, who has spent the first half of the season on loan at Bloomfield Road from Newcastle United.

The 20-year-old even scored against Scunthorpe in Pool’s 3-2 defeat on Boxing Day.

But Longstaff, whose initial loan deal comes to an end on Saturday, has opted to stay with Blackpool for the rest of the season.

The promising midfielder has received plenty of plaudits for his displays so far this season, having found the back of the net on six occasions.

He started the season in superb form, scoring in each of his first four league games.

His performances dipped while Blackpool’s own form nosedived in November and December, but he has been back to his best over the festive period.

Pool manager Gary Bowyer said it was a “huge” boost to keep Longstaff at the club.

He told The Gazette: “From where he is now to where he was when he first came in, in terms of his physical stature as well, it’s improved massively.

“When he finally grows into his body and he has the power, he’s going to be some player so this is a massive boost for us.

“The lad has got six goals in what is his first full season in English football.

“Not to put any pressure on him, but I’m sure the lad himself will be looking to hit double figures.

“That’s some return for a midfielder in your first full season.”

Prior to joining Blackpool, Longstaff was a key component in Newcastle’s U23 side and spent the second half of last season on loan to Kilmarnock in the SPL, scoring three goals in 17 appearances.

Blackpool are also said to be interested in Newcastle right-back Jamie Sterry.

The 22-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Coventry City, has made four appearances for the Toon Army this season - all in cup competitions.