Lascelles’ commitment is vital to Newcastle United’s future

With Jamaal Lascelles signing a big contract extension, Newcastle United have a leader on and off the pitch for years to come.

Newcastle United defender and captain Jamaal Lascelles inked a big contract extension today, now committed to the club until 2024. Obviously, a new, long-term deal doesn’t prevent other clubs, like the previously interested Chelsea or Spurs, from making a move for the central defender, but it does show he loves being a Magpie and has interest in being a tenured member of the Toon.

Obviously, this move helps on the pitch for years to come. Lascelles is a strong, athletic centre-back that plays well from the back. The 24-year-old is the vocal leader for Newcastle, dangerous on set pieces, and never backs down from an opponent. There have been a few players to take the other centre-back position next to Lascelles and each of them has benefited from the partnership. When he has missed time, the defense hasn’t been nearly as steady.

But, this commitment could actually mean more off the pitch. If you asked a casual Premier League fan right now, the first two things they would say about Newcastle United would be turmoil with owner Mike Ashley and the club’s current winless record. Despite both of those hardships, Lascelles decided to re-up his deal. That message should resonate with both ownership and the other players on the roster.

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For Mike Ashley, it should press him to secure another extension for a leader, but this time, Rafa Benitez. The Spanish manager is close with Lascelles and handed him the captaincy back in 2016. Ashley should understand that Benitez is as important to the club as Lascelles and they both should be around for years to come.

In regards to the other players on the roster, this is a top player on the squad making a decision to be a part of this team long term. He didn’t have to sign this new deal, but he chose to. Seeing that, other players should follow their captain’s lead and realize Newcastle United is a sleeping giant and they should want to be here when they really take off.

Toon Army will surely be celebrating their skipper choosing to be here for the long haul. He is a fan favorite due to his passion, leadership, and skills on the pitch. Now that he has a new deal, Lascelles will definitely be looking for a big win this weekend vs. Watford.