Joelinton admits he was tired by the end of Newcastle’s draw with Man United

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Joelinton returned to the Newcastle United starting lineup on Sunday, and has admitted that he was very tired by the end of the 0-0 draw with Manchester United.

The 26-year-old played the full game at Old Trafford, something he hadn’t done since the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth a month ago.

He sat on the bench for the 4-1 thumping of Fulham, then was a second half substitute in the 5-1 triumph over Brentford.

But he was back in Eddie Howe’s XI against the Red Devils, and produced a typical, combative performance that we have grown used to seeing.

He was almost the hero for the Magpies, missing our best chance. Joelinton hit the woodwork twice in the first half, and really should have given his side the lead.

Other than the miss, it was a good performance from Newcastle’s number seven. He worked tirelessly alongside his Toon teammates, and has since admitted to feeling the effects of his side’s efforts.

‘I got tired’ says Joelinton

After the full time whistle, Joelinton spoke to Viaplay Fotball. He admitted to feeling fatigued late in the game at Old Trafford.

“Of course, back from a few weeks,” he said.

“Very happy to be back on the team. I tried to help the team. At the end I got tired but I kept going because the team is very important and I was giving everything I have to help the team.”

Joelinton could be rested on Wednesday

With the games coming thick and fast, Howe might be tempted to shuffle his pack. Newcastle face Everton on Wednesday night, before a trip to Tottenham on Sunday.

There were plenty of tired legs at Old Trafford, which might force the manager to change his starting XI when Frank Lampard’s side arrive at St James’ Park.

And given Joelinton’s comments about being tired, he may be at risk of being rested ahead of Spurs.

Newcastle do have options to replace him. Joe Willock came off the bench against Man United, and will hopefully be in contention to return to the starting XI on Wednesday. Jonjo Shelvey was also back as a substitute at the weekend, and will be keen to make his first start of the season.

Howe needs to manage his players during this difficult period. And with Joelinton only just returning to the starting lineup, he could potentially benefit from a midweek rest so that he’s ready for the difficult test Tottenham will pose.

Luckily, Newcastle have got depth in the middle of the park. Howe has got a selection dilemma, but it’s not a bad problem to have in this instance.