Newcastle United suffered a disappointing result on Boxing Day.
Speaking to reporters in the wake of his side’s 1-0 defeat at home to Sheffield Wednesday on Boxing Day, and quoted via the Northern Echo, Magpies skipper Jamaal Lascelles responded to questions regarding the absence of Jonjo Shelvey, and whether or not Newcastle will be able to cope throughout the course of his five game ban.
Rafa Benitez’ men now sit second in the Championship table, two points adrift of league leaders Brighton & Hove Albion, after an inconsistent run of form that has seen them win three and lose two of their last five league outings.
Newcastle United’s Jamaal Lascelles in action
And Lascelles spoke to the media about how Shelvey’s absence could potentially affect his side’s automatic promotion challenge, as quoted by the Northern Echo:
“Jonjo does bring something different. We have players who can slot into every position. We have a really strong team and players who are wanting to play, so it’s nothing to do with that. We could play a completely different team and I’d still expect us to win.”
Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey
There is certainly no need to panic just yet, with Newcastle still holding a six point lead over third placed Reading, but Benitez will be desperate for his side to return to winning ways at home to Nottingham Forest on Friday.
Shelvey will be unavailable for selection until Newcastle’s home game against Rotherham United on January 21st, and it will be interesting to see what position the Tyneside outfit are in when that date arrives.
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