Jamaal Lascelles

Jamaal Lascelles made his competitive debut for Newcastle United on August 9, 2014, in a Premier League match against Manchester City. Lascelles had joined Newcastle United from Nottingham Forest, where he began his professional career. This marked the beginning of his long-term association with the club, where he would later become a key player and captain.

In the summer of 2015, Jamaal Lascelles was appointed as the captain of Newcastle United. This decision came as a surprise to many as Lascelles was relatively young and a recent addition to the first team. His leadership qualities were recognized by the coaching staff, and he was entrusted with a key role in leading Newcastle through challenging times, especially as they sought to regain their place in the Premier League after relegation.

On February 16, 2016, following a heavy defeat to Chelsea, Jamaal Lascelles gained media attention for openly criticizing his teammates. In a post-match interview, he expressed his frustration with the lack of effort and accountability shown by some players. Lascelles' comments were praised by fans and seen as a demonstration of his maturity and readiness to lead as captain of the team, despite Newcastle's challenging position in the league.

On April 22, 2017, Jamaal Lascelles played a crucial role in helping Newcastle United secure promotion back to the Premier League. Under the management of Rafael Benítez, Newcastle clinched promotion from the Championship by winning key matches, including a 4-1 victory over Preston North End. As captain, Lascelles' leadership was instrumental during this successful campaign, solidifying his reputation as a central figure in the squad.

Jamaal Lascelles signed a new six-year contract with Newcastle United on October 4, 2018, which would keep him at the club until 2024. This contract extension was a clear indication of the club's faith in his abilities and leadership. Lascelles had become an integral part of Newcastle's defense, and his commitment to the club was welcomed by fans and management alike. His performances had attracted interest from other clubs, but he chose to remain loyal to Newcastle.

On August 11, 2019, Jamaal Lascelles captained Newcastle United in their Premier League season opener against Arsenal, at St. James' Park. Despite a 1-0 defeat, Lascelles' leadership on the field was apparent as he organized the defense and played a critical role throughout the match. His performance in this game showcased his consistent capability as a central defender and leader, even against top-tier teams in league.

Jamaal Lascelles made his 100th competitive appearance for Newcastle United on February 1, 2020, in a Premier League match against Norwich City. This milestone highlighted his enduring presence at the club and his importance to the team's defense. Lascelles had established himself as a reliable and committed figure in Newcastle's squad, and reaching 100 appearances was a testament to his consistency and resilience as a central defender.

During the COVID-19 pandemic's peak, Jamaal Lascelles was praised for his role in leading Newcastle United through unprecedented challenges. On August 15, 2021, reports emphasized his efforts in ensuring team morale remained high, as well as his aid in managing protocols related to health and safety. Lascelles worked closely with the club's staff to provide support to teammates affected by the virus, demonstrating exemplary leadership off the field as well as on it.

On September 1, 2022, Jamaal Lascelles scored a crucial goal against Liverpool in a Premier League match. The match ended in a 2-1 victory for Newcastle United, with Lascelles making a significant impact with his performance. His goal came from a set piece, highlighting his aerial prowess and contributing to Newcastle's ability to compete against top teams in the league. Lascelles' contributions were crucial in securing a memorable win for the club.

After facing a significant injury that sidelined him for several months, Jamaal Lascelles returned to action for Newcastle United on April 12, 2023. His comeback was hailed by fans and coaches alike as he stepped back into his role as the team captain. Lascelles played a vital part in shoring up the defense as Newcastle navigated the remainder of their Premier League campaign, underscoring his resilience and importance to the team.