Jonjo Shelvey was in unbelievable shape during Newcastle United's pre-season tours of Austria and Portugal. And then disaster struck as he chased a ball amid the illustrious backdrop of the Estádio da Luz against Benfica.
Undeterred and a handful of games away from triggering a new contract extension, Shelvey got his head down and worked throughout late summer to ensure he was available for selection as soon as possible.
The weather was slightly different to that humid night in Lisbon in pre-season when Shelvey made his return to action in the capital against Spurs. The rain was tipping down and the London skies had endured thunder and lightning as Shelvey came on the final throes of the game.
