Mikel Merino has told The Chronicle that Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey “amazed” the Spain international during his time on Tyneside. Merino played for Newcastle initially on loan during the 2017-18 season.
Merino, 25, joined Newcastle in 2017 and spent the 17-18 campaign at Newcastle – signing on loan from Dortmund before a move was made permanent. He then joined Real Sociedad at the end of that season.
Since his move to Sociedad, Merino has become a regular in Luis Enrique’s Spain squad – winning 11 caps. He is just six games shy of reaching a huge 150 appearances for Sociedad, becoming a regular in the La Liga club’s side.
Speaking about his time at Newcastle, Merino singled out England international Shelvey for praise. He shared how he learned from the ex-Liverpool man – praising Shelvey for how clever he is, and his aggression.
“I was so amazed by his ability to play long passes, the way he would shoot from outside the box and everything about how he used to play because he’s not a really fast or physical player, but he’s so smart,” Merino said.
“I learned a lot in training when I had to compete against him and give my all. He’s a very aggressive player. The way I play is a bit tougher because of those Premier League characteristics,” Merino told the Chronicle.
Merino on Shelvey: Newcastle star remains crucial to the Toon
Despite the signings of Joe Willock, Bruno Guimaraes and the presence of Isaac Hayden, Sean Longstaff and others – Shelvey has always remained first choice. Even despite drops off in form, and plenty of injuries.
Even with Eddie Howe coming in, Shelvey has been a regular in the starting line-up. Clearly, the more-experienced Shelvey is a player that will have a big hand in helping the Newcastle owners get to where they want to be.
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