Jonjo Shelvey has reportedly been handed the Newcastle United captain's armband by head coach Steve McClaren.

The responsibility has been taken on by centre-back Fabricio Coloccini over recent seasons.

However, The Chronicle claims that McClaren has decided that Shelvey is the better option to lead the team through their ongoing relegation battle, despite the fact that he only joined the Magpies from Swansea City last month.

The report adds that McClaren has been impressed by the England midfielder's attitude since his arrival on Tyneside.

Shelvey skippered the team during their friendly game against Lillestrom in La Manga yesterday afternoon.