Eddie Howe loves how Joelinton has bought into his plans and has delivered ‘outstanding’ performances since he became Newcastle United’s manager, via quotes by Chronicle Live.
The Magpies hired Howe to replace Steve Bruce in charge on November 8 as the Saudi-led hierarchy got settled in. Firing Bruce after two-and-a-half years at the helm was their first big task following the £305m takeover at St James’ Park from Mike Ashley 32-days earlier.
Joelinton was the first player to arrive on Tyneside after Bruce replaced Rafa Benitez at the club in 2019. The Toon also paid Hoffenheim a club-record £40m, double the previous high for Miguel Almiron. But he never looked likely to live up to his billing before Howe’s arrival.
Joelinton achieved a sorry haul of six goals and five assists over 77 Premier League outings under Bruce. He also struggled to hold the ball up or bring his teammates into any games.
Yet Joelinton has been a man reborn with Howe at Newcastle – even if he is without a goal or assist. His performances in seven games under the former Bournemouth boss have been of stark contrast to his previous displays, as he settles into a deeper position on the pitch.
Joelinton delighting Howe with recent Newcastle performances
Howe has tasked Joelinton with filling a midfield role, rather than trying to lead Newcastle’s attack like Bruce. From the off, the change has done wonders for the 25-year-old, who has thrived against Brentford, Manchester City, Burnley and most recently Manchester United.
Joelinton battled relentlessly and was often too much for Manchester United to handle as Newcastle took a point. And the rejuvenated star’s defensive efforts delighted Howe.
“He has given me everything,” Howe said. “He has really bought into what we have tried to do and he’s worked incredibly hard for his team and teammates.
“I thought his performances have been very consistent, and he’s been outstanding. I think against Man United, the job we asked him to do defensively was very good.
“It was an outstanding performance based on a very high level of understanding. That’s so rare when you consider he has performed the majority of his career in a different position.”
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