Dan Burn recently shared his initial astonishment regarding Jonjo Shelvey when he joined Newcastle United in January 2022, becoming one of Eddie Howe’s first signings. At the time, Newcastle was grappling with relegation, and Burn joined a team that had only won a single game that season by the end of January.
Expecting a potentially toxic atmosphere, especially given the team’s poor performance, Burn was pleasantly surprised to find a group of players in the dressing room who were genuinely supportive of each other. Contrary to his assumptions about Shelvey being reserved, Burn discovered the midfielder’s surprising vocal presence, which played a crucial role in fostering a positive environment during a challenging period in Newcastle’s history.
Despite Newcastle’s transformation over the past two years, with a different team and new management under Eddie Howe, the sense of unity and determination to fight for the team’s survival persists. Burn credits Howe and the recruitment staff for successfully bringing in players who not only enhance the squad’s quality but also maintain the cohesive spirit in the dressing room. Though some players, including Shelvey, may no longer be part of the team, the culture established during the initial months under Howe remains intact.
As Burn now assumes a leadership role in the current Newcastle team, there is acknowledgment of the temptation to acquire high-quality players globally. However, the challenge lies in balancing this ambition with preserving the unique team culture that has proven crucial for success, a balance that many clubs have struggled to maintain.