“You’re the outcast, you’re the underclass, but you don’t care, because you’re living fast…”
Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez will have a focus during the off-season to come back even stronger for the 2018-19 Premier League campaign. For the likes of players such as Jonjo Shelvey and Jamaal Lascelles, the goal of representing England at the 2018 FIFA World Cup will not be achieved this summer.
Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate announced his squad for the tournament this week, and both Newcastle players will not be a part of the team. While in one sense this is disappointing for Shelvey and Lascelles (who have displayed great form in recent months), it will not come as a shock to the Toon Army.
There is a disconnect between the North East and the England side, as seeing Magpies involved with the national team is not something often expected.
Hope these two enjoy their summer and come back raring to go next season. England's loss is Newcastle United's gain. #NUFC ⚫️⚪️ pic.twitter.com/zE1NsfImXW
— NUFC360 (@NUFC360) May 16, 2018
Whether it is simply a perception or an actual fact that is considered, the Toon always had long odds of seeing one of their own being selected for Russia.
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In the case of Shelvey specifically, his reputation within the game certainly seemed to have an influence in Southgate’s final choices.
🦁🦁🦁 pic.twitter.com/Xgz5f8HHcL
— England (@England) May 16, 2018
Painted as reckless and a potential liability due to his actions on the pitch, the 26-year-old is believed to a be red card waiting to happen, while that is not the total truth when examining his recent play further in-depth.
🤔 Did you know...
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) May 15, 2018
Jonjo Shelvey hasn't received a single @premierleague booking in 2018. #NUFC pic.twitter.com/vP5qv0whX5
A dynamic presence
Shelvey has not received a booking in 2018, and his sharp passing could bring a new dimension to a somewhat predictable England midfield.
There is an argument to be made for Lascelles not being completely ready, and there are quality choices for the defence. However, to say that Shelvey would not boost the midfield seems a very short-sighted view.
Next: Six memorable NUFC victories in the Tyne-Wear derby
England enter the World Cup this summer looking to make a deep run in the competition. But it is a shame that nobody from Newcastle United will be there.