The 2-2 draw against Bournemouth at the weekend showed a lot of different things about this Newcastle United team. Firstly, it was a reminder that the Magpies are still a work in progress.
Perhaps the win over Tottenham Hotspur and the near-win against Liverpool had raised expectations way too fast. It is important to remember that this is a young squad that still has a lot to learn.
That being said, it also showed the character of this group of players. 2-0 down at home inside 35 minutes, they could have allowed their shoulders to drop and accepted the defeat.
So, that is a positive. And now, next on their schedule is an away trip to take on Millwall in the third round of the English League Cup. Obviously, it is Championship opposition. But do not expect it to be straightforward, especially away from home. And unfortunately, the Magpies continue to be without one of their more experienced heads.
Newcastle United injury situation confirmed
According to The Shields Gazette, Matthias Jaissle said regarding the situation of Joelinton:
“Joelinton is out for a couple of weeks. I am really confident that he will be back as soon as possible.”
Of course, Joelinton has not played a single minute of competitive football so far this season. But the positive is that fears that he could be out for a significant length of time have proven to be off the mark.
He is believed to have picked up the injury during pre-season. While the problem was not specified at the time, it is thought to be a muscle issue.
Joelinton is closing in on his return but won’t be back in time to take part in Newcastle United’s game against Millwall in the League Cup this week.
Newcastle will need to deal with Joelinton’s absence for a few more weeks
Newcastle United are in a position where they could do with all the help that they can get. Key players left the club over the course of the summer transfer window.
That has left voids in the team, both in terms of quality and experience. Someone like Joelinton could be able to add in both of those areas.
For now, though, we can only wish him the best in his recovery process. Hopefully, there are no setbacks and he is back available in a few weeks’ time, as it seems to be the timeframe.
Until then, Newcastle United have shown that they have enough quality and ability to deal with whatever level of opposition they face. And hopefully, they will be to pass the Millwall test with flying colours as well.
