Star Shelvey nearly missed Saints match, reveals Rafa

RAFA Benitez has paid tribute to Jonjo Shelvey after the midfielder’s sparkling display against Southampton.

Shelvey set up two goals to boost Newcastle United’s survival bid with Benitez revealing after the game the player had been touch-and-go to feature in the Premier League clash at St James’ Park.

Shelvey’s display in his last game at Bournemouth was savaged by former England star Frank Lampard, but it later emerged the ex-Liverpool man had been carrying an injury.

He missed out on a return to his old club last weekend but bounced back in style against the Saints.

Benitez said: “When we were talking about him, the idea was maybe that he couldn’t play. “On Tuesday, even Wednesday, we were talking about that. “But he was pushing, he was desperate to play and credit to him because he did well. “In another case, maybe another player would not be playing, but he decided to play, took the risk and it was quite positive.” Benitez is now hoping for more of the same from the 26-year-old in the remainder of the season. He added: “He’s someone who has a personality and confidence in himself, so he has to do that like the majority of these players. “They try and we have to improve little things, but at least the commitment is there. “That is the best way to improve and to be sure that the team as a team is stronger.”