“It’s probably going to upset people" - Steve Howey gives his unpopular opinion on NUFC star

Former NUFC man Steve Howey has delivered some harsh words towards Jamaal Lascelles - labelling the skipper our third best centre-back and a player who wouldn't get in his best starting 11.

Howey believes that injuries and inconsistent form under Steve Bruce has caused the 27-year-old’s stock to fall massively - feeling that Fernandez and Schar should be picked ahead of Lascelles.

Here's what he's had to say about the captain and our current defensive options:

“I mean, I like Lascelles. I think he’s a decent player,”

“Again, it’s like all players, you kind of struggle with form and I think, obviously, with injuries as well with him – I totally understand that.

“I like Fernandez, Schar for me is a good player as well. Paul Dummett’s decent in there, Ciaran Clark’s done really well in there as well.

“It’s probably going to upset a few people but I’d probably say Fernandez and Schar are the strongest two.”

On the contrary, Howey did acknowledge the importance of Lascelles’ leadership qualities; and therefore the impact he can have on the team overall.

 “I mean, I thought Lejeune was decent and obviously he left. I think the leadership qualities, though, that you do get off Lascelles helps the team, so, it is a difficult one.

“I think on a football-base, I would go with Schar and Fernandez but, obviously, you’re missing them leadership qualities that Lascelles brings.”

It’s certainly a controversial take, but it may not be as unpopular as I think amongst NUFC fans. Lascelles has clearly regressed under Bruce and is no longer on the verge of an England call-up or being linked with big money moves away.

However, I definitely feel more likely to keep a team out if Lascelles is in the side over Fabian Schar. The Swiss star might be more comfortable on the ball and easier on the eye, but he’s a defensive liability at times and was absolutely terrible during project restart.

Do you think Lascelles is only our third best central defender? Let us know in the comments below!

Follow us on Twitter (@NUFCBlogcouk) and on Facebook HERE