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Steve Bruce agrees that Newcastle United striker Joelinton needs to be hungrier for goals

Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
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Newcastle United forward Joelinton has scored just once since making the move to St. James’ Park.

Newcastle United Head Coach Steve Bruce during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Leicester, United...

Steve Bruce has admitted to the Shields Gazette that Newcastle United striker Joelinton needs to be hungrier for goals.

Newcastle broke their record transfer fee to bring Joelinton in over the summer, but the Brazilian has just one goal to his name so far.

The powerful forward has shown some signs of good link up play, but he hasn’t been particularly ruthless in front of goal.

And when Bruce was asked whether Joelinton needs to crave goals more, Bruce said: “That’s a good point. I think, when he played for Hoffenheim, he played towards the left a lot.

“I saw him play against Manchester City, and he played to the left, which a lot of the teams do.

“They’re not actual wide players or wingers as such, they play on the left-hand side, and I think he got used to that role.

“Certainly he’s aware – and we’ve made it clear to him – that we have to score more, so all the spotlight, of course, is on him and (Miguel) Almiron. But, as a team, we have to create more, and that’s got to be the aim going forward.”

Joelinton of Newcastle United is seen in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Hibernian and Newcastle United at Easter Road on July 30, 2019 in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Joelinton is carrying much of the goalscoring burden at Newcastle, as they are so short of other options up-front.

Newcastle do have Andy Carroll and Dwight Gayle returning to fitness, but it seems that Joelinton will be the man to start up-front at the weekend.

The Magpies are set to take on Manchester United, as they search for a much needed three points.

Newcastle head into the game in 19th place in the Premier League table and on the back of a 5-0 defeat to Leicester City.