Jonjo Shelvey is on his way back.
The midfielder hasn’t been seen since the FA Cup Third Round clash with Blackburn, where he played an important role in Newcastle’s equaliser from the spot.
A thigh injury has kept him out of action since then, but it’s fair to say he hasn’t been missed. Shelvey’s injury led to Sean Longstaff getting his big chance in the middle of the park.
The youngster has looked like an established Premier League player, with not many Newcastle fans pining for the return of Shelvey.
Shelvey returns in Spain
The Magpies are currently taking part in a warm-weather training camp in Spain, following the heartbreaking 1-1 draw with Wolves.
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And bar Rob Elliot, Rafa Benitez has a full squad at the training camp, with Shelvey returning to the fold.
The midfielder has had a tough season. He has struggled to recapture his form from last season that saw some fans calling for him to go to the World Cup.
And the 26-year-old returns at an awkward time. Longstaff and Isaac Hayden have really stepped up. On top of that, Mo Diame and Ki Sung-Yueng have returned from their injuries. The latter pair had kept Shelvey out of the team.
Previously one of Benitez’s key players, Shelvey’s path back to the starting XI is unclear.
But his return is a welcome boost, as we’ve seen far too often the talent he possesses.