Jamaal Lascelles named Newcastle United captain

We had published the other day that Jamaal Lascelles was the front runner to become Newcastle United’s next captain. It has now become official.

Rafa Benitez has named Jamaal Lascelles the next captain of Newcastle United. While Moussa Sissoko has not yet left the club, the idea of having him as captain unsettled some fans and myself. Sissoko has desperately been angling for a move away from Newcastle United, and he may have lost some respect of his teammates.

Jamaal Lascelles last season had stepped up to prove that he was ready to help lead. Despite being young — and acknowledging that — he wants to help his team win. His dedication and willingness to put himself out there to help his team do whatever it takes to win is something that the club has lacked in recent years.

More from Newcastle Toons

Former captain Fabricio Coloccini had left Newcastle United earlier in the transfer window to join his hometown club of San Lorenzo in Argentina. Coloccini’s age had become the subject of strong criticism, and his ability to compete at the level required in the Championship, let alone in the Premier League were questioned.

Lascelles is young at the age of 22, but he has ability and potential. And having a youthful captain can prove beneficial to the club if the right player is chosen. Lascelles has done well so far in pre-season, leading the club to great results. Whether he can continue that into the Championship season will be seen in time.

Next: Dwight Gayle to wear number 9 this season

I think the decision name Lascelles as captain is a smart move by Benitez. Instead of choosing a player with high expectations like Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ayoze Perez. It could be controversial naming newer players like Grant Hanley, Dwight Gayle, or Jesus Gamez. Lascelles is a safe choice, and now has the opportunity to grow as a leader.

Home/Newcastle News