"When you work with him you realise he’s an incredible technician and can play all sorts of passes, long and short. In terms of our philosophy, he’s someone who’ll be very important to us."
Eddie Howe raised more than a few eyebrows among Newcastle United supporters when he singled out Jonjo Shelvey for praise following his appointment in November. The 30-year-old playmaker was immediately identified as a key figure to the short-term rebuild, despite having previously endured a mixed stint at St James' Park.
Shelvey's talent in possession has rarely been called into question, but petulant red cards and concerns over his work rate had prevented the midfielder from ever fully winning over the fanbase. The former Liverpool and Swansea City star fell out of favour under Rafa Benitez, and seemed set to depart before the popular Toon boss walked away in the summer of 2019.
