Stick or twist with Shelvey?
After seeing the very best of Shelvey against Manchester United, the enigmatic midfielder returned to his inconsistent and infuriating best against Bournemouth.
It was Shelvey who essentially made Newcastle’s opening goal, sweeping an exquisite ball down the right-hand channel into Matt Ritchie, who fizzed in a low cross without breaking stride that Dwight Gayle back-heeled over the line at the second attempt. It was an illustration of exactly what Shelvey is capable of and why Benitez continues to put his faith in the 25-year-old. And for much of the game he picked up where he left off against Manchester United.
Until the final 10 minutes….
Frank Lampard delivered withering critique of Shelvey’s character and the part he played in both of Bournemouth’s goals, condemning the midfielder for failing to switch on, track runners and essentially throw in the towel when the pressure began to mount. Lampard highlighted how Shelvey was twice bent over with his hands on his knees watching what was unfolding as his teammates battled in vain to defend their goal. Not the type of character Newcastle need in a relegation battle.
Benitez is unlikely to have missed that either and the Magpies boss has a huge decision to make ahead of the trip to Liverpool – one of Shelvey’s former clubs – with Mikel Merino pushing for a recall. Does Benitez stick or twist with Shelvey at Anfield? The jury is out.
