Gary Neville was singing the praises of midfielder Jonjo Shelvey after he delivered a midfield masterclass in the 1-0 win over Manchester United at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Shelvey produced arguably his best performance in a black and white shirt, showing outstanding tenacity, guile and uncharacteristic discipline to control the game and make Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic look distinctly ordinary.
The 26-year old remains one of the finest passers in the Premier League, but against the Red Devils he displayed the temperament and cool-headed authority, so often absent from his game, that could make him a late contender for Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
Three Lions and Manchester United legend Neville, commentating on Sky Sports, was certainly impressed and handed Shelvey the man of the match award for a superb all-round display.
“Jonjo Shelvey’s passing in this game has been a joy,” Neville commented towards the end of the match. “His class, composure, has been great to see. He is absolutely the man of the match.”
Matt Ritchie’s goal, which orginated from Shelvey’s accurate free-kick delivery, in the 65th minute was enough for Newcastle to earn a first home win in eight games and condemn Jose Mourinho to a seventh winless league visit to Tyneside.
