Jamaal Lascelles continues to lead Newcastle United behind the scenes despite his lack of game time, Eddie Howe insists. The Magpies skipper hasn't started for the club since the last-gasp defeat against Liverpool back in August but still has a big role to play in this season's push for Europe.
Much has been made of Lascelles being handed the captain's armband during the 4-0 win over Aston Villa last weekend, as vice-captain Kieran Trippier made the classy gesture as his co-star entered the field with 10 minutes remaining. Trippier's quality and leadership has been on display all campaign thus far but Lascelles remains among the biggest voices within the squad.
For Howe, the defender's work on the training pitch and in the dressing room means he will continue to keep the captaincy even while he struggles for minutes. "Jamaal has been, and will be, our leader," the Newcastle boss told reporters on Friday.
