Newcastle United were frustratingly made to settle for just a point as they drew 0-0 at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
Eddie Howe’s side thought they had won it when the ball ricocheted off Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell and into an empty net after goalkeeper Vicente Guaita had come to collect and collided with Joe Willock.
As a result, VAR decided to chalk off the goal for a foul on the Spanish shot-stopper much to the chagrin of Howe.
Newcastle have now drawn four of their first six league games this season but it is early in the campaign and there are certainly signs of encouragement.
Perhaps none more so than the resurgence of Joelinton operating in a central midfield role.
The Brazilian has played every minute of Premier League action and was awarded an 8/10 rating for his showing against the Eagles by Lee Ryder.
Writing for the Chronicle the journalist commented: ‘Has simply picked up where he left off last season. Some important challenges.’
The one-time £40m club-record signing appeared to be wallowing in the price tag scoring just six league goals in his first two seasons at St. James’ Park however a change in the dugout has seen the 26-year-old transform into a robust midfielder.
He led his teammates for tackles and duels won in Saturday’s game as well as making two clearances, one interception and completing two key passes (SofaScore).
The former Hoffenheim frontman currently ranks fifth among the Toon players for average match rating for the season and despite a disappointing outcome on Saturday, his continued improvement is encouraging.
In other news, Noel Whelan says Alexander Isak is a ‘great’ signing
