The Newcastle United captain missed Saturday’s home defeat to Chelsea.
Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez spoke to reporters today, ahead of his side’s clash with Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup tomorrow night, and responded when asked whether he has spoken to club captain Jamaal Lascelles, following rumours of a bust-up between the pair, as quoted by the Chronicle.
The Sun claimed at the weekend that Lascelles was dropped for the Chelsea game after a training ground fall-out regarding a disagreement in tactics and formation – a line that Newcastle vehemently denied.
And Rafa seemed to suggest that there is nothing wrong between the pair.
The Spaniard told reporters that he has regularly been in contact with the Newcastle skipper, as quoted by the Chronicle:
“I spoke to him before the game at St James’ Park & when he left the ground. I spoke to him this morning maybe 3 or 4 times because his partner’s baby is due. We are fine. I was talking to him before the game because he came to support the team and after the game. I am talking to him all the time.”
If Lascelles is truly injured, Rafa will be desperate to have him back sooner rather than later, with his team going through a tough period in the Premier League.
Newcastle have taken just one point from their opening three league games, and they will be desperate for a win against Forest tomorrow, as they look for an injection of confidence ahead of next weekend’s clash with Manchester City.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
