'I’m not thick!' - Shelvey in honest admission over Newcastle future amid rapid changes at club

Jonjo Shelvey has been one of the longest-serving lieutenants in Newcastle United's current squad and is now backing himself to earn a new contract. The midfielder insists he's "not thick" with regards to his future and is well aware that he will have to perform at his very best in order to stay in the team after turning the ripe old age of 30.

Backed by Saudi funds, the Tyneside club are looking to climb up the ladder and establish themselves as title contenders in the near future under the stewardship of Eddie Howe.

Shelvey has been a mainstay in midfield for a number of years, but knows that he has to up the ante in order to keep his place as the club continues to recruit fresh talent.

Shelvey has one year left on his current contract but is confident that he can trigger the extension that will keep him at St. James Park for an additional year.

"I’ve got three games to get another year, and hopefully I should do that this season. I mean, I’d be a bit worried if I didn’t!" he has said amid Newcastle's preparations for the 2022-23 campaign.

"At the end of the day you’re always playing for a new contract and I’m not thick, I’m not getting younger. I’m 30 years of age and I look about 40! You just want to be part of it. The only way for this club is up and a lot of people would want to be in my shoes."

The former England international is aware of Newcastle's lofty ambitions and is ready to fire on all cylinders to help the club reach greater heights.

"The positivity is great around the club," he added. "We went through a really bad spell. I’ve been here six-and-a-half years now, we know what the craic is around the city and what you can and can’t do. It’s a really good place to be at the minute, the city is buzzing. My