Alan Shearer was much happier with Newcastle United as they beat Crystal Palace on Sunday.
The Magpies ended 2025 with a gritty 3-1 win over Burnley, with Alan Shearer describing Newcastle United as a tough watch.
However, he did hope that victory would act as a springboard heading into 2026.
Who was your MOTM against Crystal Palace?!
THREE CRUCIAL POINTS 😍
That has proven to be the case, with Newcastle United beating Crystal Palace 2-0 to kick off the new year.
Eddie Howe’s side certainly were not perfect, but they got better as the game went on and very much deserved to win. Lewis Miley was Newcastle’s best player, but he was not the only person in black and white to impress according to Shearer.
Joelinton impresses Alan Shearer as well as Lewis Miley
The Newcastle United legend has reflected on his former side’s win over Crystal Palace on the latest episode of the Rest Is Football podcast.
While Shearer is in no doubt that Miley was the star of the show, he has also given praise to Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes and Malick Thiaw.
“I was at St James’ Park to watch Newcastle beat Palace,” he said.
“Wasn’t easy, they had to work really hard for it, but they were the better team and did deserve the three points.
“Joelinton, I thought, played a lot better. Bruno Guimaraes was very good. Malick Thiaw was excellent again.
“But the best player on the park by an absolute mile was young Lewis Miley in the right back position. Honestly, guys, he was absolutely fantastic.
“He never put a foot wrong. He was brilliant. I think he attempted 59 passes, of which every single one of them was successful. He was brilliant.”
Joelinton stepping up at the right time for Newcastle United
Joelinton was impressive against Burnley, but there was uncertainty on whether he could replicate his performance against Crystal Palace. After all, he has suffered from inconsistency all season.
Alas, the Brazilian enforcer produced another solid display in the middle of midfield. He was powerful up against Adam Wharton, constantly winning back possession. He was also much better on the ball, as he contributed to an important Newcastle United win.
What a performance from big Joe!🥳 Is he a guaranteed starter for Eddie Howe again?
For Joelinton, it has been vital for him to raise his game. It was not too long ago that it looked like Lewis Miley would take his place in midfield.
Now Miley will be eyeing a return to his favoured position, with Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier fit again after injury.
That leaves Miley in a difficult position, as the 19-year-old may suddenly struggle to get back into midfield now that Joelinton is finally raising his game.
Eddie Howe has competition for places, and that will delight the Newcastle United manager amid the gruelling schedule.
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