The Toon Army in the Transfer Tavern are hoping their side can continue their excellent run of form of late with a victory over Swansea City on Saturday.
After enduring a torrid mid-season slump, it seems that Rafa Benitez’s side have turned a corner in recent weeks as they have collected 7 points from a possible 12 in the last four league fixtures. Newcastle’s next fixture is their biggest of the season so far, as they welcome rock-bottom Swansea to St James’ Park on Saturday afternoon. Considering the form Swansea are in, the relegation 6-pointer is simply a must win for The Magpies.
If Newcastle are to have any chance of victory this weekend, they will need their captain Jamaal Lascelles to be on top form and lead by example.
Lascelles missed 5 games through injury during November and December this season, and Newcastle managed to collect just a single point from those fixtures – conceding 15 goals in the process.
Those statistics alone illustrate how pivotal he is to the success of the North-East giants, and his positive contribution following his return has been officially recognised by the club this month as he collected the December Player of the Month award.
And Lascelles paid tribute to the supporters who voted for him via his official Twitter page yesterday.
Pleased to of won player of the month. Big thanks to the people who voted for me pic.twitter.com/o67sptWyAx
— Jamaal Lascelles (@Lascelles16) January 11, 2018
The Toon Army were full of praise for their club captain in response to the post, and a handful of admirers were even suggesting that he could be ready for an England call-up in the near future.
Here’s what the Newcastle fans had to say in response to Lascelles following his personal accolade.
Your seen how many headers he’s been winning lately? No wonder his typings a bit off
— Sholaaaa (@NufSea) January 11, 2018
Well deserved Captain.
— Carol Lawson. (@carolannelawso1) January 11, 2018
Totally agree he’s an outstanding player and captain, well done lad
— Diggler (@Slimshadyno1fan) January 11, 2018
You’re going to the World Cup lad
— Matthew (@MattyFenwickATC) January 11, 2018
No other contender in my eyes, you're the best defender #NUFC have had in years!!! Keep it up captain inspiration
— jeff charlton (@jeffhcld) January 12, 2018
Couple more times and Gareth Southgate might take a look @FA @GarethSouthgate
— Si (@SimonJobeNUFC) January 11, 2018
England call up soon, you deserve it
— andy matthewman (@mattynffc) January 11, 2018
unsurprising! by far the best player last month. without you in our side i fear we will be relegated.
— Bri
You completely deserve it Jamaal stats don’t lie
— RICHARD BOYD (@Richie_boyd) January 11, 2018
I love my captain…please, never leave
— KP. (@kieronufc) January 11, 2018
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