Jonjo Shelvey needs a fine second half of the season to reach the World Cup – and West Ham could give him the perfect platform.
Jonjo Shelvey’s aim this term was surely to reestablish himself as an England regular ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
But things have not quite gone to plan with two Premier League red cards, along with the emergence of Mikel Merino, undermining his place in the Newcastle United team.
And so, where Shelvey was once key to the Magpies’ play, a move to West Ham United – as reported by the Mirror – now feels like a real possibility.
Newcastle may well need the money and West Ham need an injection of class in their midfield, but Shelvey would surely be the big winner.
At London Stadium, the former Liverpool man would be playing alongside England squad members in Joe Hart, Aaron Cresswell and Michael Antonio, boosting his profile in front of the watching Gareth Southgate.
But that is not all. Newcastle’s front line lacks quality and so Shelvey cannot always shine when those in the attack are not maximising the potential of his pinpoint passes.
West Ham, by contrast, have Javier Hernandez to run onto through balls and Andy Carroll to attack crosses. There are others, as well, who would thrive on great service.
Realistically, too, Rafa Benitez’s side will only be aiming for survival this season, where West Ham can kick on towards the top half with Shelvey in their side.
The World Cup could easily become a possibility again if Shelvey hit the ground running in London.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
