Newcastle: Why Shelvey deserves a plane ticket to Russia

Last season was Newcastle United’s second visit this century to the Championship, but they managed to return to Premiership immediately.

Rafa Benitez’s side finished first at the end, and Jonjo Shelvey was one of the best players not only in Newcastle, but in whole league, with 5 goals scored and 8 assists provided.

Summer transfer market wasn’t as Rafa Benitez planned so the plan at the start of the campaign was to avoid relegation. But, the battle to avoid relegation has developed into a comfortable mid-table finish.

The man at the heart of it has been Shelvey, whose displays in midfield have left England manager Gareth Southgate with something to think about as he prepares to name his World Cup squad.

Shelvey was in trouble with the authorities last season over using racially-abusive language towards Wolves’ Romain Saiss.

He started this season in same way, with a sending off for stamping on Dele Alli’s ankle. But he regained his spot in the first team, putting his abilities on display as one of Newcastle’s most crucial players.

The stupid mistakes he’s made in the past are constantly highlighted by the media and that has built him a poor reputation.

Maybe lacks discipline at times but there’s no doubting his ability.

An immense passer of the ball, he gives Newcastle their only real source of creativity and has put in some brilliant performances this season. Jonjo can bring top class passing and creativity back for England and whoever’s been in that England squad, there isn’t anyone who can pass the ball better than him.

Jonjo Shelvey said that he has ironed out his disciplinary issues and is desperate to earn a World Cup spot with England. Going off the last 12 months, he definitely deserves to be in that squad.

 

Written by Rijad Abaza

Follow Rijad on Twitter @RijadAbaza

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