Despite making centre back Jamaal Lascelles captain at the start of the league campaign, Rafa Benitez opted to drop the 23 year old against Reading last night only three matches in to the Championship season.
When asked about the decision by the Shields Gazette, the Newcastle manager revealed that he told Lascelles that the Championship season is a long campaign and that he will be picking players based on the requirements of each game:
“When I was talking with Jamaal, I was saying we needed someone who would be positive on and off the pitch. He has to understand the role of a captain, and he was fine. I have to pick the team not thinking about that, but thinking about the best players for every game. The main thing for me is the reaction of the players who are on the bench or in the stands. They have to realise that we have to create a positive environment of competition between players. That is the best way to be sure we have a big enough squad for the next 43 games.”
Former Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark was given his first start of the season, replacing Lascelles in the line up to play alongside Chancel Mbemba with left back Paul Dummett being given the armband. Lascelles did however come on as a second half substitute replacing striker Ayoze Perez as the Magpies look to secure victory after going 3-1 up. Two goals from Dwight Gayle helped seal a 4-1 win as Newcastle finally got off the mark in the Championship after two defeats.
