The 5 players in frame to become Newcastle United captain as Matthias Jaissle speaks out
The 5 players in frame to become Newcastle United captain as Matthias Jaissle speaks out
3 – 4 minutes
Matthias Jaissle rejected claims that he has decided on his Newcastle United captain at yesterday’s press conference.
A new era has landed at St James’ Park. After several high-profile exits and youthful arrivals, Newcastle United will have a fresh feel ahead of the Premier League opener.
Matthias Jaissle is leading the Tyneside rebuild – and he will need an on-field lieutenant. Bruno Guimaraes jumping ship last week leaves an armband to fill as Newcastle 2.0 begins. Jaissle was asked whether a new captain had been decided ahead of the new season but quickly replied ‘no’ during his unveiling press conference at St James’ Park.
Who has the minerals to steer the black-and-white ship through choppy waters? NewcastleWorld has profiled the five top candidates.
Malick Thiaw
Thiaw appears to be in pole position after Jaissle handed him the armband at the weekend. And as far as first impressions go, a 2-1 win over Valencia did his chances little harm.
A surprise pick before kick-off, but Thiaw makes sense. He is Newcastle’s best centre-back and should start each week when fit.
There is also a German connection with the manager. Thiaw made no secret of his desire to take the reins permanently when speaking to the media on Saturday.
Dan Burn
The logical choice if Newcastle are to anoint a Geordie and experienced operator. Burn is yet to feature in pre-season after being given extended time off due to his World Cup commitments.
However, unlike Thiaw, the Blyth native is not a no-brainer for the starting line-up. Already part of the leadership setup, Burn would undoubtedly want to take the captaincy.
Joelinton
Could Newcastle shift from one Brazilian skipper to another? Joelinton is no longer the shy, timid youngster who did not speak a word of English when he arrived seven years ago.
He is now regarded as one of the Premier League’s most feared enforcers. His on-field fight and spirit certainly marry with the traits needed to captain the Magpies.
At 30, Joelinton is also at the right stage of his career. But links to Saudi Arabia are thought to have legs and could scupper his chances.
Fabian Schar
Schar is currently the club’s longest-serving player – which by default makes him a candidate. In addition, his first language is German, which gives him a big tick with the new coaching setup.
But like others on this list, Schar is not a guaranteed starter. There is fierce competition for places at centre-back and the 34-year-old may need to monitor his minutes as he enters his twilight years.
Lewis Miley
A rogue choice as Miley is just 20 but a few fans on social media have called for him to be given the responsibility. In truth, while talented, the Stanley midfielder is yet to show genuine on-field leadership.
His time could come. But at this stage of his career, perhaps the armband would come a little too early.
This season should be about establishing himself as a key figure at Newcastle after breaking through the ranks in recent years. There is no reason why he cannot step into the Sandro Tonali void this season.
