Crucial to Rafa Benitez’s overhaul at Newcastle United has no doubt been the emergence of Jamaal Lascelles as a dressing room leader. During last season’s dismal loss away at Southampton, the defender showed the sort of fighting spirit that helped convince the Spaniard he had something to work with, later being appointed skipper.
So, the 23-year-old is clearly going to have an important role in whatever future the Magpies hope to have under the 56-year-old. One of the most popular players on Tyneside, the form he’s shown during parts of this campaign have even led with big links to Chelsea.
However, he shouldn’t be at all exempt from criticism. Games like last night’s frustrating 2-2 draw with QPR proved he’s still got a lot to learn, with Lascelles far too hesitant to clear his lines, as well as allowing some complacency to slip into his game.
So, with that in mind, here’s a look at how Twitter reacted to his performance.
https://twitter.com/IAmNeilMarshall/status/826930978316812289
https://twitter.com/wazfoz/status/826944683985231872
Mbemba needs to start Saturday him and Clarke lascelles needs dropped to get his head back in game, very poor yday #nufc
— Craig Miller (@Craig_Miller89) February 2, 2017
Lascelles looks to have fallen into the trap that makes a leader vocal on social media and match programmes and not on the pitch #NUFC
— NUFC Debate (@NUFC_Debate) February 2, 2017
i blame the clark own goal on lascelles. where was he? #nufc
— Alex ⬛⬜⬛⬜ (@ANicolsonphoto) February 2, 2017
https://twitter.com/alexnufc16/status/827172888675512320
https://twitter.com/IAmNeilMarshall/status/826929980718321665
Lascelles has gone backwards for me, pressure of captaincy?And while this happens, Mbemba, our best last season can't get game? #nufc
— Simon in San Diego (@SimonInSD) February 2, 2017
