OPINION
Jonjo Shelvey is in line to start his second game in the space of a week against his former side Liverpool on Saturday and it is fully deserved.
The former England international was recalled to the starting line up against Brighton and given the captain’s armband. It was Shelvey’s first start since October last year after potential rumours of a bust up with Rafael Benitez.
Shelvey was impressive against Brighton and his ability on the ball meant Newcastle controlled the game in the first half with his great range of passing on display throughout.
Benitez was impressed with the effect Shelvey had on the game, especially in the first half. Speaking to the Chronicle after the match, the Spaniard said: “He was a little bit tired at the end, you could see we needed fresh legs in the middle. But he did well.
“During the first half he was doing really well because he can pass it really well because we were passing it all the time.”
Sitting in-front of a back five suited him perfectly on Saturday as it allowed him to concentrate on his attacking play and ability to pass the ball to all areas of the pitch. He became the vocal point of Benitez’ side and Shelvey relished the responsibility to be able to take control of a game once again.
Admittedly, it has been a disappointing campaign for Shelvey but now is the time for the midfielder to stamp his authority on the Newcastle side and make sure he is in Benitez’ plans for seasons to come.
The loss of Sean Longstaff has given Shelvey the opportunity to force his way back in to the fold at Newcastle and his skill set is perfect for a midfield partnership next to Isaac Hayden.
Shelvey, 27 – on a reported £70k-a-week – will be key for Newcastle between now and the end of the season in terms of being a creative spark in the side. With the loss of Miguel Almiron and potentially Ayoze Perez, the Magpies will desperately be lacking some one to unlock opposition defences, Shelvey can be that player.
A game against his former side, Liverpool, will be the perfect catalyst to kick start his Newcastle career once more and put him in a position to be a key figure for years to come.