Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has claimed that all Newcastle United players believe that Joelinton is ‘running’ the midfield.
Back in November, Eddie Howe became the Magpies’ new manager. At the time, they were 19th in the Premier League table, and five points from safety after playing 11 games. Now, however, they are nine points above the relegation zone with nine games left to play this season.
While the new boss deserves plenty of plaudits for this achievement, Joelinton has been at the very heart of things. Indeed, the Brazilian has played in 15 of the 17 league games for Howe, dropping in to play a deeper role in the team which has been hugely positive for player and club.
It seems that his teammates have certainly not been oblivious to his change either. Speaking to This Is Futbol, Downie revealed how the player is viewed within the club’s dressing room.
He said: “He’s running that midfield. You speak to any player, I was up speaking to Joe Willock today and he just started talking about how good he is.
“Callum Wilson, I heard him on his podcast the other week, saying the exact same thing.
“Sean Longstaff did an interview after the Manchester United draw. And he said, ‘Look, he gets to he gets a lot of stick. He is the best player in training every day’.”
TIF Thoughts on Joelinton and Newcastle…
Initially, it looked as though Joelinton may end up as one of the club’s more infamous flops. Indeed, having signed from Hoffenheim for a club-record fee in the region of £40m, it took the Brazilian a fair while to find his feet.
Playing predominantly as a striker under Steve Bruce, the 25-year-old scored just two league goals in his debut season despite featuring in every Premier League match.
Is Joelinton NUFC's best midfielder?
Yes
No
But, as is made clear by Downie’s information on the player’s teammates, Joelinton has truly turned his form around to become a key part of the club’s success in the second half of the season.
No doubt, he’ll be hoping to continue this fine run of form heading into the summer.
In other news: ‘There is real scope’ – Craig Hope drops big transfer claim that’ll excite Newcastle faithful