Joelinton will be desperate to start for Newcastle against Brentford

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Newcastle United take on Brentford in the Premier League this afternoon, and Joelinton will be very keen to start at St James’ Park.

The Brazilian was an unused substitute last week in the win over Fulham. However, Eddie Howe has now confirmed that he is fit to play against Brentford.

Joelinton lost his place in the Newcastle midfield to Sean Longstaff, who played very well. But the Toon number seven will want to start, as he has a very good record against Thomas Frank’s side.

While he arrived as a club record number nine, Joelinton has struggled for goals in a Newcastle shirt. However, he actually scored in both fixtures against Brentford last season.

The first was in Howe’s debut game in charge. Joelinton’s instinctive finish in the box made it 2-2 on an afternoon where the Magpies drew 3-3.

The 26-year-old had an even bigger impact in our last game against the West London side. He powered home a header to give Newcastle the lead, as they went on to win 2-0.

This was a huge day for him. He was serenaded by the travelling fans, who were very much on the Joelinton bandwagon at this point.

The £40million man has a knack for scoring against Brentford, and will hope to add to his tally this afternoon.

Who could miss out if Joelinton returns against Brentford

If Joelinton is to return to the starting XI today, one player will have to miss out. And there are two candidates who stick out.

The most likely is Longstaff. That would be harsh on the local lad given how well he did last week, but Joelinton is one of Howe’s favourites and a key player at St James’ Park.

Therefore, it would not be surprising to see the 24-year-old replaced by the former Hoffenheim forward.

Another option is to play Joelinton on the wing instead of Jacob Murphy. The £12million man was a shock starter last week, but did well at Craven Cottage. However, he arguably could have done even better given the opportunities he had.

We have seen Joelinton play out wide in the past and do well, and that is another option Howe could explore.

Regardless, he will be desperate to start so he can try and make it three goals in three gams against Brentford.