It was not too long ago that Newcastle United were being praised for having the best midfield in the Premier League.
The trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton have absolutely everything you would want from a three-man midfield, and could more than hold their own up against any of their Premier League opponents.
In September, Troy Deeney said Newcastle had the Premier League’s best midfield. Just over a month later and there are fears it is becoming a weakness.
The issue is Joelinton, who was replaced at half-time during Newcastle’s defeat to Brighton on Saturday. Newcastle fans criticised Joelinton for his performance, with the 29-year-old constantly giving away possession.
It was not a surprise to see him replaced by Lewis Miley for the second half, and there are growing concerns that the £40million Brazilian is becoming Newcastle’s weak link.
Eddie Howe criticises Newcastle United midfield after poor Joelinton performance
Joelinton was an injury concern going into Saturday’s game, and that combined with his disappointing display resulted in him being hooked at half-time.
Following the game, Eddie Howe was asked about his midfield’s performance during the defeat to Brighton.
“They are brilliant players but they didn’t function well today but I don’t think the team did,” he told BBC Match of the Day.
By the time the final whistle blew, none of Newcastle United’s starting midfield were on the pitch. Jacob Ramsey replaced Sandro Tonali in the 70th minute, while Will Osula came on for Bruno Guimaraes shortly after Danny Welbeck restored the Seagulls’ lead.
How Eddie Howe can solve Newcastle United’s midfield problem
Newcastle United’s sudden midfield issue centres around Joelinton. He is simply not good enough on the ball compared to Bruno and Tonali.
There is no shame in that, but the Magpies’ number seven must do a better job at protecting the ball when he gets hold of it. Far too often he is let down by a poor first touch, or he plays a wayward pass due to a lack of composure.
While Joelinton has incredible qualities off the ball with his power, he is becoming a hindrance when Newcastle United are in control of the ball. They endured the same problem against Nottingham Forest before the international break.
Fortunately for Eddie Howe, he does have alternatives. Jacob Ramsey is back to fitness, and will be putting Joelinton under pressure following his £43million move from Aston Villa.
Lewis Miley is also a threat to Joelinton’s place in the starting XI, proving to be a much more reliable protector of the ball in tight areas. That is a vital quality, as Newcastle continue to adapt their style of play following the arrival of Nick Woltemade.
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