Newcastle United held Arsenal to a 0-0 draw on Tuesday night, and Joelinton was one of the Magpies’ top performers vs the Gunners.
The Brazilian started on the left of attack once again for Newcastle, despite playing his best football in 2022 in the middle of the park.
But he is having an impact on the wing now too, and was a crucial figure in getting a point at the Emirates.
Arsenal looked incredibly dangerous down that side early on in the game. Bukayo Saka was lively, and looked set to inflict a miserable night on Toon left-back Dan Burn.
However, Newcastle eventually got to grips with the size of the task down their left-hand side. Burn sharpened up, and he was given a massive helping hand by Joelinton.
The amount of ground the 26-year-old covered against Arsenal was sensational, making important tackle after important tackle. Whether it was high up the pitch or in his own box, Joelinton was there to produce an interception.
The £40million man was one of Newcastle’s best players in the draw with Mikel Arteta’s side, and he has received praise from Toon boss Howe.
Howe on Joelinton vs Arsenal
After the game, Howe spoke to BBC Sport. He was asked about Joelinton’s performance, with the reporter highlighting a late lung-busting run from Newcastle’s number seven to get back in position and defend.
“He does that on a consistent basis,” Howe said.
“The man is an incredible athlete and he’s highly motivated to help the team. I’m so pleased he’s getting the recognition from people like yourself who have a very good eye to praise his work-rate and ability to help his teammates.
“I thought he was very good tonight.”
Outstanding from Joelinton
It really was a brilliant performance from Joelinton. Without his defensive efforts, it probably would have been a very different story.
He also tried to make a difference in attack too, but missed a golden chance to score with a header on the stroke of half time.
Joelinton justified his selection in a massive way, and proved exactly why he is more suited to these games than Allan Saint-Maximin. That is who J7 is keeping out of the team right now.
While Saint-Maximin has the flair and skill that would have made Newcastle more dangerous in attack against Arsenal, he does not possess the defensive tenacity that was vital in securing a well-earned point away from home.
The draw with Arsenal was all about Newcastle’s resilience and desire to defend. And that was epitomised perfectly by Joelinton.
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