‘Centre-forward qualities’: Eddie Howe makes interesting hint on Joelinton

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Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe stated in today’s press conference that despite playing in midfield, Joelinton has the attributes to play up front.

The Brazilian has benefitted from the position change. Along with Joe Willock and Jonjo Shelvey, they’ve become quite the midfield trio. Furthermore, Joelinton has made a case to be in the argument for the Magpies’ Player of the Season.

Howe spoke on the 25-year-old and his goal last weekend against Brentford per Newcastle’s Twitter account.

The Newcastle head coach said: “I think there’s centre-forward qualities in there. Last week we saw that – it was a brilliant header. It was great to see him attack the box. His flexibility is something we’ll utilise but he’s doing so well in midfield I’m reluctant to move him.”

Of all the players positively impacted by Howe, Joelinton’s has been the most remarkable

When Joelinton joined in the summer of 2019 from Hoffenheim for £40 million (BBC Sport), there was a lot of pressure on him. He was the club’s record signing and given the iconic number nine shirt.

He really struggled to play as the sole striker. Occasionally he showed shades of quality either outside or playing just off the striker.

Eddie Howe was appointed manager in November and early on he was acknowledged as a key player for him going forward. Joelinton scored in his first game in charge, a 3-3 draw with Brentford.

But the now number seven has been playing in a central midfield role. He’s thriving in that role and showing off the qualities he has to offer. He can dribble, he can tackle, he presses and is an overall force in midfield.

Against Manchester United, he was given the Man of the Match award by Sky Sports. It was the first time seeing him in that new role and he took to it like a duck to water.

Last weekend Joelinton scored once again against the Bees. This time round in a 2-0 away from home, he headed the ball past David Raya to open the scoring.

The man from Brazil is at his best in midfield and whilst the goal last weekend displayed his striker-Esque abilities, his quality shines in midfield.

His best performances in a Newcastle shirt have come there. The trio in midfield are one of the Toon’s strongest elements currently, moving Joelinton forward could hinder that.