Supporters of Newcastle United have flocked to an admission that was recently made by the Toon’s Brazilian striker Joelinton.
During a recent interview with Yahoo Brazil, as cited by Chronicle Live, the £18m-rated frontman discussed life at St. James’ Park and the club’s ambitions for this season.
While discussing his ambitions for the season, Joelinton suggested that the Toon could qualify for a European club competition this term.
He said: “I think we have to think game by game, with each victory, so that we can go a long way in the competition and, in the end, pinch a spot in some European competition.”
After these quotes were picked up by Chronicle Live, they were relayed on social media by Mark Douglas and the quotes had lots of fans talking.
So, what did these Newcastle fans have to say about Joelinton’s admission?
Europa League the aim this season?
That's what Joelinton has told Brazilian media: https://t.co/sqlcLlp3et
— Mark Douglas (@MsiDouglas) December 4, 2020
Under Mike Ashley and Steve Bruce we will never get Europa League football
— Liam ???? (@LiamNUFC98) December 4, 2020
Bless him, I’m sure he believes it and that’s the exact kind of attitude we should want. Doesn’t make it any less delusional though unfortunately.
— Connel Hooley (@connelhooley) December 4, 2020
After winning four, drawing two and losing four of their opening 10 Premier League fixtures, Newcastle occupy 13th position in the top flight prior to this weekend’s fixtures (per BBC).
Can Newcastle qualify for a European club competition this season?
No, we're not that good
Yes, anything is possible
Did they lower the position you need to finish in to 13th?
— Scott Daley (@ScottDaley26) December 4, 2020
Oh dear. https://t.co/bSi1bdVMyk
— Dave Horne (@nufc3000) December 4, 2020
So far this season, Joelinton has made nine appearances for the Toon in the top flight, in which he has scored one goal and provided one assist (per WhoScored).
His performances in the nine outings have earned him a relatively respectable 6.82/10 average rating, making him Newcastle’s fifth-best performer in the league.
No offence to Joe but I just laughed out loud. https://t.co/t2PIEjtgMw
— Russ Luke ? (@russellrace27) December 4, 2020
????
— christian (@christiangrizz) December 4, 2020
As can be seen in these responses from the St. James’ Park faithful, they did not believe that the Toon are capable of earning European football this season.