A lot of Newcastle United fans have responded to their club releasing pictures of Jamaal Lascelles – as the Toon captain prepares to return from injury.
Lascelles has been out since Newcastle’s 2-1 win over Bournemouth, and though they started off well without the 26-year-old, they have won only one of their last seven matches in all competitions.
Will the return of Lascelles make a difference to Newcastle?
Yes, he is a crucial part of their side
No, they have better defenders
Some Newcastle fans, therefore, are delighted to see Lascelles back.
Skip ?#NUFC pic.twitter.com/jRo41VxCwi
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) January 13, 2020
You don’t realise how much he’s missed until he’s actually not playing, such an important player!!
— Lewis Morris (@lewismorris09) January 13, 2020
Sorely missed!
— hasanh (@hasan_kotn) January 13, 2020
Best news all month ??
— Rob Danson (@danson_rob) January 13, 2020
oh captain my captain
— joe (@Futman11Jr) January 13, 2020
— Caroline Dowse (@toongirl83) January 14, 2020
Ohhhh ???
— Shiv xx (@shivxxxxxxxx) January 13, 2020
What do we think?
Newcastle have conceded 17 goals since Lascelles was injured, and though he might not be the club’s best defender, he is the most effective organiser, and the Toon are a better team when they have him at the heart of the defence.
Lascelles, who is valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt, is very vocal and can often be seen on the pitch shouting at his teammates and getting the best from everyone.
Newcastle play Rochdale in an FA Cup replay tonight, and Lascelles could be available for selection.
Still, Steve Bruce might decide not to risk the former Nottingham Forest man and make sure he is ready for the game against Chelsea instead.