Newcastle United skipper Jamaal Lascelles has broken his silence on not being a first-team regular.

The club captain has only managed a single Premier League start all campaign.

Lascelles does not want to leave the Magpies, who are sitting in third place in the Premier League, despite his desire to play more often.

Lascelles said, per Chronicle Live: "On a personal note I have been on the bench for a while now. I completely understand.

"Especially as a defender, you never change a back four if they are fit and keeping clean sheets.

“As much as I want to play I totally support that. My work ethic won't change.

"I will always be there when called upon."

On maintaining his positivity, Lascelles added: "It's huge. I have been in dressing rooms that have been toxic.

"I'd never do that I'd always get behind the lads that aren't playing and try to lead by example.

“If it's not on the pitch it will be in the dressing room. I just think we have got a really special team and everybody is on board.

"I will support the lads as they'd support me."