Newcastle United pushed themselves ten points clear of the relegation zone with a third Premier League victory in a row, overcoming European-chasing Leicester City.
The Foxes provided a stern test for Rafael Benitez’s revitalised side, who got over the line thanks to goals from Ayoze Perez and Jonjo Shelvey- the latter finally netting his first goal of the season and being hailed as a match winner.
However, the jury is still out for many regarding the England hopeful and BBC pundit Garth Crooks has criticised the former Liverpool man by stating he cannot be trusted- despite his goal against Leicester and an impressive upturn in form over the course of recent months.
Whilst naming Shelvey in his team of the week, Crooks said:
“This was an amazing victory against the 2016 champions by Newcastle and why I had no choice but to include Jonjo Shelvey in my team of the week. I have to be honest, I don’t enjoy putting players like him in my team. I like footballers and there has been far too much over-physicality where Shelvey has been concerned,”
“However, his performances of late have been impressive. With greater levels of fitness and a more reliable temperament, Magpies boss Rafa Benitez could turn him into a top-class player. Certainly England have no-one with his ability in midfield – he just can’t be trusted right now.”
Whilst Shelvey’s disciplinary record shows why Crooks has this view, Shelvey’s recent performances cannot be overlooked.
