Shelvey: 'It was time to mature'

The 26-year-old has a record of bookings and sendings off throughout his career, but has only been booked once since January in all competitions. 

Speaking to 'BBC Sport', Shelvey revealed how he has changed his attitude on the pitch. 

"I'm 26 years of age and it was time to mature and grow up. I feel that I have now. 

"Going back two or three years ago, when you get called a bald whatever and get booed every time you touch the ball, you end up smashing someone.

"Now I see it as a compliment when fans boo me because they know I can hurt them on the football pitch, and I try to do it in that way.

"I'm the same way my dad was on a football pitch. It stems down to wanting to win so much.

"As soon as I step over that white line it's that desire to be a winner. It took me a long time to learn there are ways to win a football match.

"I spent a bit of time with a psychologist - I still do. I feel that that has helped. He gives you little pointers that if you do feel you're losing your head."

Shelvey also acknowledged that different aspects of his career have taken a different path than he had hoped. The Englishman was not selected for the World Cup squad, resulting in criticism from many fans.