Shelvey has been wearing the armband for Newcastle in recent outings, with skipper Lascelles having only played a bit part role under boss Eddie Howe since he returned to the first team fold following a spell on the sidelines owing to illness.
Howe has stuck with Fabian Schar and Dan Burn as his first choice pairing in the heart of defence, while Lascelles has continued to be a regular presence on the bench.
Shelvey revealed that not getting regular game time has been mentally tough on Lascelles, but stressed he deserves credit for the way he has handled the difficult situation.
The midfielder hailed Lascelles as a great leader and added he has been handing his responsibilities in the right way, even though he is going through a tough spell.
“I am enjoying it [having the armband], but obviously I know that I am not the club captain”, Shelvey told NUFC TV.
“That is Jamaal’s responsibility and he is a great leader and he is a great captain.
“For someone that has obviously not been playing as well, it is mentally tough but credit to him.
“He has been spot on.”
Newcastle are set to host Crystal Palace tonight in the Premier League and with fixtures coming thick and fast, it remains to be seen whether Howe will give squad players more game time.
