Sky Sports pundit Phil Thompson has backed Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey to be called up to the England squad for the World Cup.
Shelvey has experienced an indifferent season at St James’ Park after being sent off on the opening day of the season for stamping on Tottenham and England international Dele Alli, but has gradually began to show in the past few months why Rafa Benitez continues to trust him as the creator-in-chief in United’s midfield.
The 26-year-old delivered a flawless display in the 1-0 victory over Manchester United and, despite some passive defensive work in the 2-2 draw at Bournemouth, has rediscovered the form that earned him five caps for his country between 2012 and 2015.
Saturday’s 3-0 win against Southampton showcased the best of a mature and focussed Shelvey, knitting together play from the centre of midfield and carrying out the explicit directions laid out by Benitez – a coach that is beginning to wring some consistency out of a talented player renowned for his mercurial temperament.
And Thompson believes England boss Gareth Southgate should be considering the former Charlton, Liverpool and Swansea man as a candidate for his World Cup squad despite there being an abundance of midfielders vying for a place.
“I also think Jonjo Shelvey should be considered,” he told Sky Sports.
“He does something that most of our other midfield options don’t in always looking to play the ball forward, but he’s got to prove he can handle the defensive side as well.”
Shelvey last represented England a 2-0 win over France in November 2015.
