Newcastle have suffered a huge injury blow ahead of their trip to Burnley.
The Magpies are finally over their fitness woes in attack, but now the problems are at the other end of the pitch.
Jamaal Lascelles is set to miss the game against Burnley with a foot injury, and could be out for the rest of the season.
The centre-back is hoping to be fit for the final two games of the campaign.
This is a blow for Newcastle, who already have Fabian Schar out of action. Fortunately, Federico Fernandez is due to return after his injury layoff.
Steve Bruce will be forced into a change at the back, but he will also be forced to name a new captain.
Newcastle will be looking for a new leader, and the man who deserves to be captain is Matt Ritchie.
Even before Lascelles’ injury, some fans were calling for Ritchie to get the armband.
Ritchie proved he was captain material vs Spurs
The 31-year-old returned to the starting XI last week, operating as a left wing-back against Tottenham.
This was Ritchie’s first appearance since his reported bust-up with Bruce. And what a performance it was.
Ritchie needed to prove a point, and that’s exactly what he did.
His performance was exceptional. He played a role in both goals, while his attitude off the ball set the tone for a much improved performance from the Magpies.
Ritchie’s work rate is his biggest strength. His energy is infectious, and he lifts the players around him.
That is exactly what you want from a captain. That is why he should wear the armband in Lascelles’ absence.
Unfortunately, Bruce will likely name Jonjo Shelvey as captain instead.
Fans will be disappointed, but it won’t change Ritchie’s performance. He’ll work just as hard, and ensure he leads by example with or without the armband.
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