While Isaac Hayden has thrived in 2019, Jonjo Shelvey has had to watch from the bench.
The former has been inspirational since the turn of the year, despite making it very clear that he wants to leave the club.
During the past two transfer windows, Hayden has made noises about wanting to move closer to his family. However, both times a move failed to materialise.
But he has remained professional and has been one of Rafa Benitez’s best players over the past few months.
He has played an important role in securing Premier League safety, which was confirmed last week.
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However, with safety assured, his run in the team should end.
Hayden out, Shelvey in?
Shelvey has barely had a kick this season. Injuries and lack of form have seen him out of the first-team picture.
But with three games left, the £12million 2016 signing deserves some minutes.
Hayden still wants to leave the club and should be allowed to do so this summer. In contrast, Shelvey is playing for his future. We have nothing to gain from using Hayden now, other than maybe increasing his price tag further.
Shelvey might have a future at Newcastle, though. But he needs a chance from Benitez to prove his worth.
It’s unlikely that Hayden will drop out for the rest of the season, but we should already be looking towards our next Premier League campaign.
Hayden probably won’t be here, but Shelvey might. Give him a chance to show everyone what he can do.