Shelvey compared to Gerrard after Newcastle debut

Moussa Sissoko has compared Newcastle new boy Jonjo Shelvey to Steven Gerrard after a “very good” debut for the club.

Shelvey starred as Newcastle beat West Ham 2-1at St James’ Park  on Saturday, with the former Swansea midfielder playing a key role in his first game since joining for £12million earlier in the week.

No player gained possession more times at St James’ Park, while only Aleksandar Mitrovic attempted more shots. The 23-year-old also completed more passes than any of his team-mates, and Sissoko was impressed after a crucial victory for the Magpies.

“For me, his style is very similar to Steven Gerrard’s, because he can play the long ball easily, he can get on the second balls,” Sissoko said.

“He gave a fantastic ball to Daryl [Janmaat] and then Daryl crossed for [Georginio Wijnaldum], so he’s going to be a very good player for us.”

Sissoko believes Shelvey and fellow new signing Henri Saivet can have a positive effect for Steve McClaren’s men, who moved out of the relegation zone with victory.

“I hope he and [Henri] Saivet are going to help us for the rest of the season because we need everyone to contribute to winning games and moving us forward,” Sissoko said.

“Shelvey started and he played very well, showing some very good things,” Sissoko said. “Saivet came on and he also did very well and all of this is good for us and good for them as well.

“So I hope they can now help us for the rest of the season because we need everyone to help us finish higher up the league, if it’s possible.”