Jonjo: Win is all that matters at this stage

JONJO Shelvey admits that Newcastle United’s clash with Leeds United should be a “great occasion” – but insists he is prepared to win ugly at St James’ Park .

With Newcastle now playing catch-up at the top of the Sky Bet Championship, and behind Brighton in the race for the title, Shelvey doesn’t care how the Magpies start picking up points.

Speaking ahead of the crunch promotion clash with Leeds, Shelvey said: “When we went down to Elland Road it was bouncing. It is going to be a great game to play in and a great occasion.

“It doesn’t matter how you play on the night at this crucial stage of the season, it’s about getting the points. “That’s what we need to do against Leeds. Friday night is another game live on Sky Sports and one we are looking forward to.” Newcastle can pull away further from Huddersfield in second place if the Terriers slip up at home to Preston North End and United take three points. United are looking to recover from the 2-1 loss to Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend. Shelvey, speaking to NUFC TV, said: “We have five games to go and even if it goes right down to the wire we are going to keep going and going. “I am sure we will get that automatic spot. The games have came thick and fast. We had three games in the week. “We just need to get back on the training pitch and work on some things the gaffer implemented after the game.”