Jonjo Shelvey didn’t have a great season last time out.
But the midfielder looks a man reborn, and could be a key player for Newcastle under Steve Bruce.
Shelvey is at his best when he’s the focal point of a team, spraying passes about and unlocking defences. And if he’s got players who are willing to run in behind, then even better.
That’s why he struggled at times last season. Salomon Rondon was a target man with limited pace. He and Shelvey didn’t link up, meaning the midfielder was pretty ineffective at times.
But with a new look front three at St James’ Park, Shelvey should be licking his lips. Firstly, Joelinton looks a bit more mobile than Rondon. Then we’ve also got Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin.
The pair have pace to burn and are quick in and out of possession. Being quick is one thing, but being able to sprint and keep control of the ball is another. Fortunately, it looks like we’ve got two attackers who can do that.
They’ll give Shelvey more scope to be creative. The better options he has, the more variety we can see in his passing.
Last season, it looked like the former Liverpool player’s time at St James’ Park was up, but he’s getting another chance.
And with new players around him, Shelvey might be perfectly set up for a big season in black and white.
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