Rafa Benitez sees no reason for Shelvey not to be an England option

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The midfielder has been in fine form for Newcastle United this season.

Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey celebrates scoring the first goal with the Newcastle fans

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has told the Chronicle there is every chance Jonjo Shelvey could get back into the England squad given his fine form.

The midfielder has not played for the Three Lions since he joined the Magpies in the January transfer window last season.

He has started this season in fine form, playing a key role as the Magpies have started strongly to currently sit third in the table.

Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey celebrates after he scored their second goal

This week saw England struggle to a 0-0 draw away in Slovenia, with the midfield and stand-in captain Jordan Henderson coming in for particular criticism.

And Benitez thinks there is no reason why his man cannot force his way back in given the form he is enjoying.

“He is playing every game, so I am really pleased with him,” he told the Chronicle.

“We were talking about maybe he could play for England , maybe it was too early, but why not when he is playing as well as he is now. He is trying to get to a really good level.”

Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey celebrates scoring their third goal

There is no denying that Shelvey has been in fine form for the Magpies this season but unfortunately for him it is unlikely to see him make an England return.

The biggest factor against him is the fact he is playing in the Championship, with players in that division often overlooked for England selection.

One factor that may stand in his favour, though, is the fact he has been better creatively than the likes of Jordan Henderson, Danny Drinkwater and Eric Dier so far.

In a Three Lions midfield that is lacking in that department, perhaps it is something that could see him at least in contention for a place.

Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey applauds fans after the game