OPINION
Another game, another disappointing performance from Newcastle United striker Joelinton. The £40million man did next to nothing in the Magpies’ 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.
The former Hoffenheim star had an absolute shocker at St James’ Park, failing to have any meaningful impact on the game, and you have to wonder if his time in the starting line up is coming to an end.
BBC pundit Pat Nevin was certainly unimpressed by the 23-year-old, telling BBC Radio 5 Live [27/10; 15:56] that: “He had absolutely no effect on the game whatsoever.”
It’s difficult for Joelinton, because he has been absolutely starved of service by a Newcastle team who have now scored just six times in 10 Premier League games so far this season.
However, he isn’t doing anywhere near enough himself at the moment – there’s little arguing with that fact. With that said, Bruce must be brave and pull the trigger on Magpies striker Dwight Gayle against West Ham United next week. Joelinton must drop out, with a far more natural attacker in Gayle surely needing to replace him.
As per WhoScored.com, Gayle has played just six minutes of action for Newcastle so far this term. However, his predatory instincts, well established over the years, must be utilised by Bruce moving forward.
Because there’s no doubt that Joelinton isn’t cutting the mustard, at the moment. As per WhoScored.com, the attacker managed just one shot – off target – and a key pass on Sunday. He was also dispossessed a massive three times and had two unsuccessful touches. Meanwhile, his pass success rate of 66.7% was absolutely woeful.
Joelinton looks like a man in the desert, wandering about not knowing where to find water. Bruce must give him a break and throw Gayle in against the Hammers.
