Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has called for Gareth Southgate to call up midfielder Jonjo Shelvey after his sparkling display against Chelsea.
The Newcastle United midfielder claimed the man-of-the-match award over last season’s champions Chelsea on the final day in the Premier League, as the Magpies dominated in a 3-0 victory at St James’ Park, and Rafa Benitez has suggested (via talkSPORT) that his play-maker deserves a place in the England squad.
Shelvey, 26, has always had obvious talent, as his composure on the ball, ability to spot a pass and technical finesse have made him a vital addition to Rafa Benitez’s outfit.
It is the issues with his attitude and discipline that have held him back in recent years both domestically and at international level. Getting red carded on the Premier League opening day is still one example fresh in the memory.
However, with the recent injury to Alex-Oxlade-Chamberlain, who was partnering Jesse Lingard and Eric Dier in a three-man midfield, a surprise inclusion is imminent and either Shelvey or Crystal Palace’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek look most likely to fill the void come tournament time.
With the Three Lions squad set to be announced on Wednesday, Benitez has attempted to sway the decision in the Newcastle player’s favour.
Speaking to talkSPORT the Spaniard claimed: “The way that he has been behaving and playing during the season, especially at the end of the season, I think he is a different kind of midfielder so I am sure he will be in consideration.
“He deserves to be there, especially because of the characteristics that he has and the way he was behaving himself in the last month.”
Only time will tell if Southgate agrees, but it would be a bitter blow to the Newcastle star if he was overlook after a stellar campaign.
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