Newcastle United suffered a 4-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday afternoon, but Joelinton’s showing at St James’ Park was a positive. The 25-year-old has been operating in a makeshift midfield role of late and continues to put in great performances.
Joelinton had a thankless task against Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne, but he still made more touches than any of his teammates and was expert at driving with the ball from deep without relinquishing possession. The Brazilian’s performance earned him a lot of props from fans on social media.
Against Man City, Joelinton played for 90 minutes, had 55 touches, completed 78.6% of his 28 passes, had one shot, whipped in one cross, made one tackle, had one interception, made three clearances, gave away three fouls, won freekick and had four successful dribbles.
The 25-year-old has made 18 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal with one assist. He was a regular forward until Eddie Howe replaced Steve Bruce and is now a midfielder. Joelinton has been on the losing team in Newcastle’s last two Premier League games but has impressed in the engine room. That may now continue if form dictates.
In other news, fans on social media say there’s ‘no chance’ Newcastle can sign Dusan Vlahovic
