Sean Longstaff admitted his relief after netting his first Leeds United goal in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth at Elland Road. The £12m summer signing from Newcastle was named man of the match, registering both a goal and an assist as Leeds came within minutes of a crucial win before a stoppage-time equaliser denied them.
The 27-year-old midfielder, who had never moved clubs before leaving his boyhood team Newcastle in July, is beginning to settle into life at Elland Road. Having now started four consecutive matches under Daniel Farke, Longstaff is proving his worth with consistent, composed performances.
Longstaff on his first goal for Leeds
Speaking to club media, Longstaff described the moment he fired Leeds ahead early in the second half:
“It’s a bit of relief to score – I hadn’t scored in a little while so I was over the moon. I thought Brenden [Aaronson] was going to score and then I just tried to hit it where I could and luckily it sliced into the top corner and a bit of a dodgy knee slide.” — Sean Longstaff, Leeds United club media
He later shared his delight on social media, writing: “Brilliant feeling to score my first goal at Elland Road in front of you all.”
Praise from teammates and manager
Joe Rodon, who equalised for Leeds in the first half with a header from Longstaff’s corner, hailed his teammate’s impact.
“I can’t praise Sean enough. He’s been absolutely outstanding and he’s gonna be a key figure for us going forward. You saw again today, he’s everywhere… What a brilliant finish. I’m very happy for him and hopefully there’s many more to come.”
Manager Daniel Farke was equally impressed, highlighting Longstaff’s leadership qualities:
“For me, the most important thing is more or less that he leads by example on the pitch. His workload against the ball, his composure on the ball, his tactical understanding, also body language and leadership on and off the pitch – we are pretty blessed and happy about that.”
Leadership and settling in at Elland Road
Longstaff has already shown leadership beyond his performances. After Rodon’s equaliser, he was seen rallying his teammates, urging calm and focus. The midfielder himself said he is enjoying his new surroundings and the energy of the Elland Road crowd.
“Whenever the crowd gets up you always feel like at least we are going to score and now to have that on your side is a massive privilege really. To come here and play every week is something that I definitely don’t take for granted… there is nothing better than playing in this stadium when it is in the Premier League.”
Key insights
- Sean Longstaff scored his first Leeds United goal in the 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
- The £12m summer signing also registered an assist for Joe Rodon’s header.
- Teammates praised his calmness and leadership, while Farke hailed his consistency and tactical intelligence.
- Longstaff is becoming a key figure in Leeds’ midfield after starting four straight games.
- He described the goal as a relief, joking it was “sliced into the top corner” with a “dodgy knee slide.”
What’s next for Leeds?
Leeds remain unbeaten at home this season but will rue the late goal that denied them three points. With Longstaff settling in and becoming a leader both on and off the pitch, Daniel Farke’s side will hope he continues to drive their survival push.
👉 Can Sean Longstaff’s growing influence help Leeds United steer clear of relegation this season?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 29 Sep 2025 07:24
cost them only 12m...
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