Mick Quinn has claimed that Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has caused Steve Bruce a massive problem after his performance in the 3-2 at West Ham United.
Shelvey scored and dictated play all afternoon at the London Stadium after being brought in to the Magpies’ side to replace the impressive Matty Longstaff.
Quinn questioned the 27-year-old’s ability to perform consistently in the Premier League, which is the most frustrating part as he believes he has all the attributes needed to succeed.
“He’s got all the attributes – his range of passing, he can thread the ball through the eye of a needle. It’s just great when you see him play like that,” Quinn wrote in the Chronicle.
“But is he capable of doing that each week? That’s probably been, along with injuries and suspensions, the most frustrating thing about Jonjo.
“It’s a massive problem for Brucey when Sean’s back from suspension, and the competition for places is great.”
OPINION
At the beginning of the season, it looked like Steve Bruce had left himself short in many areas that could have left his side struggling for depth midway through the campaign. If the opening three months have taught us anything, it’s that the Magpies definitely have a lot of depth in both defence and midfield. Bruce’s defence has changed significantly, and with Florian Lejeune returning it could change again. His midfield was a cause for concern, with Rafael Benitez having not taken a shining to Shelvey during his spell, he had the chance to change that with Bruce. He has done just that, and with the emergence of the younger Longstaff brother too, the Magpies’ boss definitely has a problem, but one that he will certainly welcome as his side move forward. Shelvey simply has to keep his place against Bournemouth, without a doubt, and if he continues with that level of performance, Sean Longstaff will find it very difficult to get his spot back after suspension.
