Actually, although I'd personally rate Shelvey as the most talented player in the squad, we haven't missed him at all in recent months. Ki was terrific before he left for International Duty, but his absence has presented Longstaff with an opportunity he's seized upon. Benitez likes to have two leggy spoiling holding midfielders in these games and Shelvey doesn't tick that box. So whilst they may not have been effective on the ball, Longstaff and Hayden prevented City from playing through the middle whilst the wing back worked tirelessly against Sane and SterlingNewcastle deserved the win but they are a poor side without Diame and Shelvey in all honesty
The Mags are raving about Longstaff in the absence of Ki and Shelvey and Diame might not play together ever again