According to the Chronicle, Newcastle United have held positive talks with both Jonjo Shelvey and Matt Ritchie over contract extensions. Two senior players amongst the Toon squad after joining in 2016, both stars are understood to have reached an agreement with the club in principle.
Shelvey – who lost his place towards the back end of the Rafa Benitez era at St. James’ Park – has looked a different man this time around under Steve Bruce. Indeed, he’s averaging more shots, key passes, clearances and interceptions per game this year and is currently the Toon’s top goalscorer with 5 (all stats via WhoScored).
Ritchie, meanwhile, has missed most of the season through injury but has played a key role under Steve Bruce, as well as Benitez. Able to operate in both defence and midfield, the former Bournemouth man averages the most key passes per game (2.3) of anyone in the Toon’s squad right now.
With that in mind, here’s a look at how Newcastle fans reacted to the news online.
So is that like two new signings 😉
— Mags Lives Matter,💙🇺🇦 (@GlennMCcready) January 12, 2020
Good news. Shelvey has been excellent this season and adding goals to his game and Ritchie is the exact type of character we need in the squad, no matter who we bring in.
— Daniel. (@danjpeg) January 12, 2020
https://twitter.com/shxlvey_/status/1216374114392383489
https://twitter.com/Kaiecoates2/status/1216373924683972608
Wouldn’t be having Shelvey. Questionable attitude at times & doesn’t have the legs for a CM 2, especially away from home. Move him on for a good fee.
— Mark500 (@MarkLawson500) January 12, 2020
https://twitter.com/RatedRS67933848/status/1216375576702799872
What do you make of the potential new deals for these two? Join the discussion by commenting below…