Frank Lampard strongly criticises Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey

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Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey failed to impress with his performance against Bournemouth.

Frank Lampard has told Match of the Day, which was broadcast on BBC One on 24th February, that Jonjo Shelvey proved why he wasn’t a permanent starter for Newcastle United in their match against Bournemouth.

Newcastle threw away a two-goal lead in the last ten minutes at Dean Court yesterday, and Shelvey did not cover himself in glory.

The midfielder failed to track his runner on the first goal, and then was guilty of watching on as Bournemouth scored an equaliser.

With the Cherries pushing forward, Shelvey rather bizarrely stood with his hands on his knees, rather than helping his side defend.

And Lampard claims that Benitez will now be livid with the midfielder.

“I don’t understand [why Shelvey wasn’t back],” the former Chelsea midfielder said. “I don’t think it’s a physical thing, adrenaline would make you run back at that point. I think it’s a concentration thing.

“I think it’s a mentality thing. Rafa Benitez will be livid and that’s why sometimes he doesn’t play him, because he’s the best passer in their team, but moments like that can cost you a game.”

Shelvey also missed a huge opportunity to wrap the game up, with the Newcastle midfielder failing to show his best on the south coast.

Shelvey has indeed been rotated in and out of Newcastle’s first-team this season, with his attitude and discipline often being questioned.

Newcastle’s failure to beat Bournemouth has seen them slip down to 15th place in the Premier League table.