Jonjo Shelvey is the man who makes Newcastle United 'tick', according to BBC pundit Micah Richards.
The former England international was ruled out for the Magpies' defeat at Turf Moor on Saturday, but had played a key role in the recent run which had catapulted United within touching distance of the Europa League places.
Recalled by Steve Bruce for the victory at West Ham on November 2, Shelvey has rewarded the head coach's faith by racking up four goals in six matches.
Speaking on BBC's Five Live Sport ahead of the Burnley defeat, Micah Richards believes the midfielder is a valuable "cog" in the United team.
The former Manchester City and Aston Villa defender praised Shelvey's determination to take on possession, and believes he was unlucky to be overlooked for an England call-up following the Magpies' return to the top flight.
Richards said: "I feel a little bit sorry for Jonjo Shelvey because I think he should have been given more of a chance for England a couple of seasons ago.
"[He has] a couple of things off - his challenging, his disciplinary record is not great, but I really think he makes Newcastle tick.
"He's not afraid to get on the ball even when the team are struggling or shying away from it. He is the one who sort of sticks out for me who is the cog in the football club. He's not afraid to take them forward
"I see a lot of players in that Newcastle team shying away, but he's not afraid to take responsibility and that's what I like mostly about him.
