Will Shelvey Pull The Strings?

Last updated : 01 February 2017 By Footy Mad - Editor

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Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey was marked out of the game with Rotherham but Benitez wants others to support him against QPR

Jonjo Shelvey has been described as the best player “ever” in the Sky Bet Championship by Ian Holloway this season.

The Queens Park Rangers boss worked with Shelvey during his time at Blackpool back in 2011 when the Londoner netted six goals in the Championship.

Now Holloway will be looking at ways to stop his former star man at St James’ Park when Newcastle take on QPR.

Benitez said: “We know how important Jonjo has been for us. Ian knows Jonjo well and he may pay him more attention during the game.

“We have to manage with Jonjo playing well or even without Jonjo playing well.

“The aim is to have a good squad, everybody has to try to help.

“It doesn’t matter which player - you give everything in every game.”

Newcastle will be without Dwight Gayle for the clash with QPR with the player still overcoming a hamstring injury.

But Mo Diame is back in contention after taking part in some training after being knocked out of the African Cup of Nations with Senegal.

Speaking on injuries, Benitez said: “Rolando, Gayle and Anita are still not available.

“Mo Diame has come back and he can be part of the squad as well. Dwight is progressing and doing well but we have to wait.”