Kieron Dyer lavished praise on Joelinton earlier today, admitting he initially thought he was a waste of money.
The Brazilian featured today for Newcastle United in the 2-1 win over Leicester City, starting in his now usual midfield role.
The South American changed position a few months ago, after struggling to cut it in the final third for the Magpies.
Joelinton had taken a lot of criticism over his first couple of seasons at the club.
But it seems he has finally found the ideal role for him, and fans have been astounded by his transformation from misfiring striker to box-to-box enforcer.
Ahead of today’s game between Newcastle and Leicester, Jamie Redknapp and Dyer were talking about the Newcastle midfield.
Talk turned to Joelinton, and Dyer admitted he felt he was a waste of money initially, but heaped praise on the former Hoffenheim man for his renaissance.
He said: “I’ve been on this platform numerous times saying he was a waste of money. You see the ‘most duels won’ there, his physicality, pace and power. An absolute breath of fresh air for Newcastle. He is one of the key ingredients in the team.
“You look at all the top teams, they need a player like that. He does all the work, fair play to him.”
Joelinton transformation at Newcastle is one of the stories of the season
Dyer’s initial view that Joelinton was a waste of money was one many Newcastle fans shared.
He really struggled for a long time after making his move to St. James’ Park from the Bundesliga.
But the £87,000-a-week star never allowed himself to give in, and has been learning his new trade as a dynamic midfield enforcer.
Very few saw something like that coming. And huge credit must go to Eddie Howe, who saw the potential in him to perform such a role.
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