3 veterans are set to stay at Newcastle United

Newcastle United are still searching for new players, but it looks like they have prioritized some internal business first.

Newcastle United are in desperate need of a few reinforcements this month, especially at the striker position, but the club has conducted some internal business. According to a new report from the Chronicle, midfielders Matt Ritchie and Jonjo Shelvey have agreed to extend their contracts with Newcastle United.

A second report from the same source also claims that the club has triggered a clause in Federico Fernandez’s contract that would see him stay on Tyneside for one more year. The Argentine’s contract was set to expire at the end of this season, but his wish to stay at St. James’ Park seems to have been granted by the front office.

All three players play an integral role in the success of Newcastle United. The club’s best results come from collective effort, but three points are usually claimed when Shelvey, Ritchie and Fernandez are at their best.

At the start of the season, Shelvey stated that his primary objective is to earn a new contract on Tyneside, and he has certainly earned one. His five goals make him the club’s leading scorer, and there is plenty of time for him reach double digit figures.

Ritchie has been the most consistent player at Newcastle United for multiple seasons, but he has been sidelined with a severe ankle injury for a few months. Ritchie did return to action in the FA Cup clash against Rochdale, and his return comes at a perfect time. With injuries continuing to pile up for the Magpies, Ritchie provides the consistency and reliability that Christian Atsu lacks.

Fernandez was signed last season when Rafa Benitez was in charge and he was expected to provide internal competition by coming off the bench. He began this season in the same role, but he has been the Magpies’ best defender since taking over for the injured Jamaal Lascelles. It is also worth noting that Fernandez has taken care of himself better than any other defender in the squad. His ability to stay healthy has been a blessing for Newcastle United.

Overall, the club is making the right moves with these three players. None of them are guaranteed to be starters for several consecutive games, but they are leaders on the pitch and force others around them to be at their best in training.