‘He’ll be disappointed’: Waddle not impressed by Newcastle star vs Leeds

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Chris Waddle believes Joelinton will be ‘disappointed’ with his efforts as Newcastle United hosted Leeds United. The Magpies and Whites played a goalless match on New Year’s Eve.

The Toon enjoyed a myriad of chances to break the deadlock but Eddie Howe’s men would ultimately not get the better of Jesse Marsch’s. Joelinton enjoyed a late chance to find the go-ahead goal, as well. But the Brazilian could only smash his shot miles over the crossbar.

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Joelinton was not alone in failing to force Illan Meslier to make a save at St James’ Park on Saturday. But Waddle noted how the 26-year-old’s miss reminded the Magpies hero of his struggles in yesteryear. The Alianca native often failed to meet expectations as a forward.

Newcastle backed Steve Bruce in the former Toon boss’ first window in charge by signing Joelinton for £40m. His move was a club-record deal at the time for the Tyneside natives. Yet Bruce could never get enough from Joelinton to suggest he was worth the sum spent.

Joelinton amassed 77 Premier League appearances under Bruce before Newcastle sacked the coach in October 2021. Yet over those outings, he found the net just six times and laid on a further five assists. Joelinton already has five goals and two assists in 39 under Howe.

Joelinton failed to impress Newcastle hero Waddle late on against Leeds

Howe has fielded Joelinton in midfield for much of his time in charge at St James’, as well. The Magpies boss rejuvenated a career that was proving to be a nightmare as a striker for Joelinton. His form saw Newcastle name the Brazilian as their Player of the Year last term.

But Howe relied on Joelinton to start as their left-sided forward as Newcastle hosted Leeds on New Year’s Eve. His first-half display offered a lot of hope, as well, as the Brazilian went close to scoring numerous times. Yet his shot in the closing stages did not impress Waddle.

“That was the Joelinton of two seasons ago,” former Newcastle midfielder Waddle said on BBC Radio 5 Live. “He never looked like he was going to score. He has played very well this season but he’ll be disappointed with that.”