Newcastle United

Jonjo Shelvey: 'I have grown up at Newcastle United with psychologist's help'

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 17 August 2018

Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey reveals how the last few months have seen him "grow up" and curb his on-pitch temper with the help of a psychologist.

Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey has admitted that the last year has seen him "grow up" with the help of a psychologist.

The England international has been sent off four times and received 28 yellow cards in his career.

However, Shelvey's last 19 games have seen him booked just once, and the 26-year-old spoke of how he has curbed his temper on the pitch.

"I'm 26 years of age and it was time to mature and grow up," Shelvey told BBC Sport. "I feel that I have now.

"Going back two or three years ago, when you get called a bald whatever and get booed every time you touch the ball, you end up smashing someone. Now I see it as a compliment when fans boo me because they know I can hurt them on the football pitch, and I try to do it in that way.

"I'm the same way my dad was on a football pitch. It stems down to wanting to win so much. As soon as I step over that white line it's that desire to be a winner. It took me a long time to learn there are ways to win a football match.

"I spent a bit of time with a psychologist - I still do. I feel that that has helped. He gives you little pointers that if you do feel you're losing your head."

Shelvey's most recent red card came against Everton in December 2017.