Lascelles hails Lejeune improvement
Jamaal Lascelles says Newcastle team-mate Florian Lejeune has got everything it takes to be a success in the Premier League.
Lejeune returned to Rafa Benitez’s starting XI against Manchester United, when the Magpies secured a precious 1-0 win 12 days ago.
And the 26-year-old defender – who replaced Ciaran Clark – will hope to keep his place for tomorrow’s trip to 10th-placed Bournemouth.
Lascelles thought his defensive partner – hit by ankle and foot injuries in the first half of the season – was “excellent” against Manchester United.
“He’s a good defender,” said Newcastle’s captain, who is reportedly being tracked by Chelsea. “He offers a lot. He’s good on the ball, and, defensively, he was excellent. “I think me and him played well together, and everyone was at it against them. “It’s important that we keep it there. We have set our standard, and we need to maintain it.” TheManchester United game also saw goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, signed on loan from Sparta Prague last month, make his debut.
“The new keeper was brilliant, and made some great saves,” said Lascelles.
“Normally, new players can be a little bit shy or they don’t come out of their shell, but in training he has come in, he wants to play and has been bossing people about.
“That’s really good, because he is the voice at the back, and it’s important that he speaks to his defenders.
“Fair play to him. He made some great saves and kept us a clean sheet.”