Lascelles has eye on the ball ... not a move
RAFA Benitez insists the club’s focus is on improving skipper Jamaal Lascelles’ game, despite continuous speculation linking the centre-back with a move away from Newcastle United.
Chelsea have been touted with an interest in the 24 year old and were reported to be readying a summer £30m bid.
West Ham United have also been linked as the Hammers’ owners look set to back manager David Moyes and appease home fans.
However, having spoken to Lascelles, Benitez says the former Nottingham Forest defender is happy on Tyneside.
Benitez said: “He’s happy, training well, he’s improving, he’s focused.
“You can’t stop speculation about players but I was talking with him and the focus is on just trying to improve his game.”
When asked if Newcastle was the right club for Lascelles to be at to help his development, Benitez replied: “I think at the moment he knows he has to continue progressing and learning but he is quite happy here.”
Newcastle welcome Arsenal to St James’ Park this Sunday looking for a fourth consecutive Premier League victory and a third at home. The Magpies go into the clash having lost only twice in the last 12 games.
Lascelles’ performances have been so impressive some have called for him to be included in England’s World Cup squad.
However, having missed out on last month’s squad for friendlies against Holland and Italy Lascelles’ chances of a call-up look relatively small.