Eddie Howe has pinpointed Jonjo Shelvey as a key man in his Newcastle United rebuild.
The midfielder and occasional captain started to come alive again in the second half against Brighton & Hove Albion and only blotted his copybook with a poor free-kick at the end of the game when failing to test outfielder Lewis Dunk in goal.
Although it has been suggested he may have been following an instruction from the coaching staff on the night during the 1-1 draw in Graeme Jones' final game as caretaker boss.
However, the Amex Stadium incident is now firmly in Shelvey's rearview mirror and he looks set to start against Brentford at St James' Park.
When asked about players that had stood out in his first few training sessions, Howe said: "I knew how good he was having played against him.
"But then when you work with him you realise he’s an incredible technician and can play all sorts of passes, long and short.
"In terms of our philosophy, he’s someone who’ll be very important to us."
Howe is looking forward to the clash against the Bees in what will be his opening fixture.
He said: "The atmosphere will be a brilliant thing for me and my players to experience.
"I thank the supporters for everything they've done for me to this point, how welcome they've made me and my staff feel.
"I just urge them to really try and help the team get a win."
