Paul Jewell: We mustn’t expect too much from Massimo Luongo

Ipswich v Blackburn: He has impressed everyone – manager, team-mates and fans alike – since arriving from Tottenham.

But on the eve of Massimo Luongo’s first ever match in the Championship, Ipswich Town boss Paul Jewell has looked to quell the growing sense of anticipation over the 19-year-old.

From the moment he first took to the field at Cambridge United in a pre-season friendly, Luongo has oozed Premier League class with assured and calm passing and a tasty tackle to boot.

But in, what will be, his first full season of competitive action after largely being on the fringes at Spurs, Jewell has looked to partly play down Luongo’s impact in the heart of the Town midfield.

That said, the Blues boss has been left hugely impressed by the teenager who will start alongside fellow young gun Luke Hyam against Blackburn Rovers tomorrow.

Jewell confirmed: “He’ll be making his debut on Saturday in what will be a big game.

“He’s done really well for us in pre-season, but he’s only 19 and it’s important that we don’t expect too much of him.

“He’s very calm on the ball, he’s young and hungry, but Saturday will be a big test for him as well as one or two others. I’m sure though that, whatever the outcome, they’ll be better for it.”

Luongo has also impressed his team-mates – Hyam last week singing his praises and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas this week following suit.

Jet said: “He (Massimo) is a neat and tidy player. He likes to get on the ball and pass it and hopefully he can do that throughout the season.

“He has settled in well – he has had family come down and keep him company.”