Could Shelvey injury give Newcastle fans what they want to see?

Jonjo Shelvey is reportedly facing another spell on the sidelines at Newcastle United.

The English midfielder missed yesterday’s game against Wolves, with Steve Bruce confirming the player is undergoing surgery on his groin today.

According to Sky Sports he’s looking at a lay-off of around four weeks.

On the face of things, it’s a blow for the Magpies.

(Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

£70,000-a-week Shelvey (Spotrac) is one of few players for Newcastle who is capable of pulling the strings from deep and being somewhat creative.

But he had not started 2020/21 particularly well, and it could be that his injury actually now allows for something which fans have been clamouring for all season.

£20 million signing Miguel Almiron (ESPN) was included in the starting XI for only the second time yesterday, and with Shelvey out of the picture, it could be that he now gets the extended run many fans feel he deserves.

TBR’s View – Almiron too influential for the bench

Fans have rightfully questioned Bruce regarding the management for Almiron this term.

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

He’s shown previously that he can be capable of moments of brilliance for Newcastle.

He’s inventive, and slippery, and can operate between the lines to cause harm to the opponent.

Almiron can provide that same creativity Shelvey does, but in areas that are more dangerous for the opposition.

Perhaps with Shelvey sidelined, he’ll have more chances to start in the league with Isaac Hayden or Jeff Hendrick holding.