Lee Clark has told Chronicle Live that Joelinton has looked like a ‘different player’ since Newcastle United brought Eddie Howe to the club to replace Steve Bruce as manager.
Joelinton is in his third season on Tyneside, but has never lived up to his club-record £40m price tag. Bruce also admitted the Brazilian is not the natural striker he was signed to be.
The forward consistently struggled to lead the line under Bruce, and scored just six goals in 77 Premier League games. He already has one in one since Howe arrived at St James’ Park.
While Howe was not in the dugout against Brentford after testing positive for coronavirus, Joelinton was a man reborn. He delivered a man of the match display, constantly battling for the ball, chipping in with a goal and offering a bright spark in the Magpies’ attack.
Joelinton delighted Clark by making an impact as Newcastle drew 3-3 with Brentford to kick off the Howe era. He now hopes the 25-year-old can maintain that level on a regular basis.
“I was pleased to see Joelinton enjoying his moment against Brentford and it was a great display,” Clark said. “This is what happens when new managers come in.
“They can bring the best out of players that might not have performed under others. He certainly delivered and looked like a different player.
“Whatever has gone on in training, he has gained a lot of confidence from it and he showed it in the game.
“I hope he can take a lot of belief from his performance and start scoring on a regular basis. If he delivers the level he did against Brentford, he will have every chance.”
Can Howe unlock the Joelinton that Newcastle paid Hoffenheim £40m for?
Howe has a long way to go before Newcastle can feel their decision to pay Hoffenheim £40m for Joelinton two-years ago is justified.
Joelinton took a step in the right direction against Brentford, and can take another leap by repeating it against Arsenal.
The Magpies are seven games without a win over the Gunners across all competitions. The Toon have also not beaten the north Londoners on the road since 2010 with Andy Carroll.
Their 2-1 win at home to Arsenal in April 2018 also marks Newcastle’s only victory since November 2010. So, Howe getting the most out of Joelinton in the capital could be huge.
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