Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is set to have his contract extended a further 12 months should he make another three appearances in black and white.
It’s emerged that there’s a clause in his current deal that will see his contract expire in 2024 – not next summer – if he plays three more games for the club; something he looks certain to do ahead of the new season.
After six and a half years at the club and 197 games, the former England international has returned to pre-season in the best condition of his career, with fans noticing how lean he looks in trainings snaps.
Here’s what Shelvey told The Mail’s Craig Hope out in Austria:
“I’ve got three games to get another year and I should do that this season. I mean, I’d be a bit worried if I didn’t!
“You’re always playing for a new contract. I’m not thick, I’m not getting younger. I’m 30 and I look about 40!”
Shelvey was signed by Steve McClaren in January 2016 – six months before we were relegated – and has been a key figure in pushing us back to the Premier League and maintaining our top-flight status.
While many have questioned his commitment and effort in recent years, since the arrival of Eddie Howe, the Romford-born midfielder has played some of his best football and looks in great shape ahead of the new campaign.
At 30-years-old, the former Liverpool man has shown he is still able to control a game and dictate play with his passing ability and could yet be a key member of our team as we build on our project of attaining European football.
