Joelinton responded to at least some of his doubters with a big performance for Newcastle United against Burnley on Tuesday night.
After a recent injury, Joelinton was restored to the starting lineup and scored the first goal only seconds into the game as Newcastle United beat Burnley 3-1 at Turf Moor.
There’s little doubt that this season has been a struggle for the big Brazilian.
Who was your MOTM against Burnley?!
Feel free to name your worst player too 😂
While Joelinton has been one of the pillars upon which Eddie Howe has built his success on Tyneside, his performances thus far haven’t always been great.
Admittedly, injuries have played their part, but Joelinton has been linked with a move away to Saudi Arabia.
Still, and while there will be tougher tests to come, the 29-year-old did play well against the Clarets.
Joelinton’s impressive statistics for Newcastle United vs Burnley
To definitively suggest that Joelinton is back to his absolute best would be wrong.
However, if a player is going to be criticised when playing badly, it’s only fair that they are praised when they play well.
The Newcastle United midfielder was impressive on a cold night in Lancashire, even aside from his goal.
As per FotMob data, he created four chances, made three recoveries and won ten duels, which was the most of anyone on the pitch.
Sum up Joelinton’s performance in three words!
‘Jacob Ramsey benched’ 😂
Pressure on Jacob Ramsey as Joelinton responds in brilliant fashion
Though Howe is likely to rotate his options within the Newcastle United squad over the coming weeks, summer signing Jacob Ramsey faces a fight to get back into the side.
Ramsey had started to string a few good performances together in recent weeks but it would be fair to say that the jury is still out on whether he was a successful signing.
Joelinton’s brilliant display, admittedly in a game Newcastle should be winning, was certainly a response to Ramsey taking his place against Chelsea and Manchester United.
It will be fascinating to see if Ramsey can convince Howe enough to reclaim it.
Joelinton’s very best days may be behind him but he remains a key part of this team.
Sign up to TalkingPoints for free to join the conversation about all things Newcastle United with Geordie Boot Boys!