Why Jonjo Shelvey apologised to Newcastle United fans despite Brighton win

Jonjo Shelvey has issued an apology to Newcastle United fans for his performance while praising the work ethic of his team-mates in the win against Brighton. Eddie Howe's side stretched their unbeaten top-flight run to eight matches with a 2-1 victory against the Seagulls on Saturday.

Quickfire first-half strikes from Ryan Fraser and Fabian Schar were enough to secure all three points despite a Lewis Dunk header and a spirited second-half display from the visitors. Newcastle's midfield trio have been praised for their performances in recent weeks, but it was a difficult afternoon for Joelinton, Shelvey and Joe Willock as Brighton enjoyed 68% of possession.

Shelvey deputised as the Magpies' skipper in the absence of Jamaal Lascelles, and has expressed his disappointment at his own display having already watched the victory back twice. The 30-year-old also thanked fans for their 'fantastic' support while stressing his excitement for the club's future.

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He told the club's website: "We weren't at our best yesterday but sometimes you have to grind out results - credit to Brighton. I apologise for my own performance; I've actually watched the game back twice but I dug deep and am proud of my team for doing the same.

"I honestly thought the fans were absolutely fantastic and it excites me what this place is going to be like in three of four years' time and to keep seeing the results you've had in the past eight games but on a bigger scale. The sky's the limit."