Newcastle United’s top scorer this season Jonjo Shelvey has come out and heaped praise on his manager, stating that he hasn’t come across many better man managers.
Whatever Steve Bruce is saying to the 27-year-old so far this season, it seems to be working. Shelvey has never struggled to find the net, however, from just 10 starts this season in the Premier League he has managed five goals – over double the amount of anyone else.
Playing as part of a two in a central midfield backed up by three centre backs behind him, the midfielder has the license to really get forward while they are on the break and it appears to be paying dividends.
He is still required to fulfil defensive duties – much like every player in the side apart from the centre forward – and is by no means an attacking midfielder, but he has been clinical when needed so far.
Speaking to the official website, nufc.co.uk, Shelvey said: “He is one of the best man managers I have ever worked with.
“I feel like I am reaping the benefits of that.
“He just says ‘if you work hard, your football ability will come through’.
“I just need to keep working hard on the pitch and away from it. If I work my socks off for the team, the rest will come together.”
Even with some supporters still not happy with Bruce and his appointment, these are the kind of messages you want to hear your players saying. Man management is obviously a crucial part of coaching, especially to maintain high morale within the squad, so fans can be happy that Shelvey is happy with the current ongoings and the manager in charge.
While Shelvey doesn’t speak for the whole squad, it is nevertheless a good sign that there is respect there for the main man, which would have been the concerns of many supporters after changing from a manager with the reputation of Benitez to the likes of Bruce.
When you look at the performances from the team they may not be particularly exhilarating on the eye, but you cannot argue that his side is not giving their all for the club, as suggested by the fact they are punching above their weight so far with 22 points from 17 games.
According to Transfermarkt, Shelvey has racked up 123 games for the Magpies now, scoring 13 goals and assisting in the process, and is valued at £16.2m.