Gabby Agbonlahor has questioned Eddie Howe's decision not to strip Jamaal Lascelles of the captaincy at Newcastle United. The long-serving Magpies skipper has kept his place as a dressing room leader despite falling behind Sven Botman, Dan Burn, and Fabian Schar in the pecking order.
Lascelles has kept the armband ahead for his seventh season at the club, but is expected to be a bit-part player for United this term. The 28-year-old was named on the bench for the opening-day win against Nottingham Forest, only to be replaced ahead of kick-off by Paul Dummett due to injury.
Howe has introduced a leadership group at St James' Park since his appointment in November, with Kieran Trippier leading the side for the 2-0 victory over Steve Cooper's side. When asked about Lascelles' continued status as captain earlier this summer, Howe stood by the centre-back and insisted he remains 'a big presence and a very positive influence in the squad'.
