Newcastle United Player of the Month: November, 2019
By Durim Halimi
November was a good month for Newcastle United as multiple players stepped up for the team to earn seven crucial points.
Newcastle United ended the month of November in impressive style as they managed to earn a 2-2 draw against Manchester City at St. James’ Park. The Magpies’ overall form in November was equally impressive as Steve Bruce’s men claimed two victories, drew once and only suffered one defeat.
A collective effort, understanding, and urgency were the primary factors to Newcastle United’s success in November, but a few players, in particular, stood out more than others this month. That being said, let’s take a look at our selections for our site’s Player of the Month award for November.
Carson Merk
Player of the Month Selection: Jonjo Shelvey
In November, Jonjo Shelvey stepped up in more ways than one. Sean Longstaff was sent off in the final match of October and Shelvey took his place in the midfield during the three-match suspension. He scored the third goal in a 3-2 win over West Ham to start the month. The next match saw Jamaal Lascelles go off with an injury and Shelvey has taken over as captain in the two matches following. Yesterday against Manchester City, the midfielder buried the late equalizer to secure a draw at St. James’ Park.
Across last month, he was able to spring counter-attacks with Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron with his long diagonal passing and clipping the ball over the top of the backline. He has asserted himself as a vocal leader and his goals have led to memorable celebrations in front of the traveling Toon Army and the Gallowgate end.
Durim Halimi
Player of the Month Selection: Ciaran Clark
Ciaran Clark came close to leaving Newcastle United this summer, but good thing he stayed put. Clark is traditionally a bench player, but he has made a strong case that he should continue to start in place of Jamaal Lascelles even when the skipper returns from injury in January. Clark has literally done everything for Newcastle United in November.
The Irishman has been a stubborn defender who put his body on the line in the penalty box and he became the club’s second-highest scorer this season with his goals against West Ham and Bournemouth, the last goal being the game winner. Overall, Clark effectively utilized the month of November to show fans and Steve Bruce just how dynamic he truly is.