Rio Ferdinand has stated that Joelinton has ‘come out of nowhere’ at Newcastle, as he told Vibe with Five.
The legendary centre-back stated that the striker turned midfielder was a ‘laughing stock’ at Newcastle, but he is now a ‘cult hero’.
The 25-year-old has had a remarkable turnaround under Eddie Howe and it has probably been Joelinton’s biggest blessing that he walked through the St James’ Park doors.
Under Steve Bruce, the Brazilian star was struggling as a striker, but he has now been turned into a dominant midfielder by Howe.
Not many expected it, but all those who criticised Joelinton should now rightfully praise him, as Ferdinand gave the player his flowers.
“Newcastle are on fire, by the way,” said Ferdinand. “After 14 Premier League matches, Newcastle were winless and bottom of the Premier League.
“Joelinton has come out of nowhere. Laughing stock at the club, but now he’s a cult hero.”
It wasn’t so long ago that Joelinton would have been dubbed a ‘waste of money’ and a striker the club would have been looking to offload.
But now he has probably saved the club millions given what he is producing as a midfielder.
Prior to Howe’s arrival, the Magpies needed that full-package midfielder that could dominate proceedings in the middle of the park.
Well, heading into next season, Joelinton is a sure starter and not many would have been saying that back in September.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
