Joelinton steals the limelight with incredible reaction to Newcastle United’s second goal vs Arsenal

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Joelinton made the most out of his time in the stands after he was ruled out of Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup semi-final.

In the build-up to Wednesday’s clash, Newcastle fans spotted Joelinton in a knee brace, sparking concerns that he had suffered a serious injury.

Eddie Howe confirmed Joelinton’s injury in his pre-match press conference but revealed that he faced a late fitness test to face Arsenal.

Unfortunately, the Brazilian narrowly missed out on a matchday spot. But instead of replacing Joelinton with another midfielder, Howe opted for a back-five formation against Arsenal – a tactical gamble that paid off.

Newcastle booked their spot in the Carabao Cup final after replicating the 2-0 scoreline from the first leg at a fiery St James’ Park. Watching from the sidelines, Joelinton loved every minute of it.

Joelinton spotted celebrating with Newcastle United fans

Despite being ruled out through injury, there was no way Joelinton was going to miss this one.

Joelinton wore an iconic Newcastle shirt to St James’ Park and was spotted with a club scarf around his neck. This was his chance to embrace being a fan, and he took it with both hands.

As Anthony Gordon doubled Newcastle’s lead in the second half, Toon fans spotted Joelinton celebrating. The Brazilian midfielder joined fans by swinging his scarf in the air.

Before the Arsenal clash, Joelinton had featured in every single available match for Newcastle this season, including all Carabao Cup matches.

However, instead of letting his injury get him down, he turned up to support his teammates in brilliant fashion.

Eddie Howe faces big Joelinton call for Carabao Cup final

After back-to-back home defeats, there were plenty of nerves flying around St James’ Park on Wednesday.

The anxiety heightened once Howe named a back five in his starting lineup, but the Magpies boss got his game plan absolutely spot on.

Newcastle will either face Liverpool or Tottenham in the Carabao Cup final next month – the second leg of their semi-final will be played on Thursday evening.

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When the Magpies line up at Wembley, Howe has a big decision to make. Joelinton has been in good form this season, creating a formidable midfield trio alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.

But after such a strong display with a five-at-the-back against Liverpool, Howe may be tempted to use that system again in the capital.