Newcastle United currently have no plans to drop Joelinton from their starting 11 ahead of their game against Wolves on Sunday.
The Chronicle journalist, Ciaran Kelly, revealed that the Magpies’ scouting system filed a number of outstanding scouting reports on the Brazilian in the summer, and Steve Bruce still has memories of the striker turning into a “different animal” against Tottenham earlier in the season.
Bruce opened up on the forward’s recent struggles and delivered his verdict on his plans for the former Hoffenheim man ahead of the Wolves clash.
“I don’t think he needs a rest just yet,” he said as quoted by the Chronicle.
“I think he just needs time.”
OPINION
It is hard to suggest what could give Joelinton that boost he needs to start finding the back of the net more consistently this season. The Brazilian has definitely shown glimpses that he has what it takes to be a success in the Premier League, and making the decision to drop him could certainly hurt his confidence going forward. The 23-year-old needs to keep his head up and make sure that he continues to do the basics well, and that is finding space in the final third that gives his teammates the opportunities to create chances for him. Bruce will want his striker to keep his physical streak but he definitely needs to make sure that it doesn’t replace his poaching instincts in the time being. For Joelinton to get better, he needs the players around him such as Miguel Almiron to also drastically improve or he could find his side in deep trouble.
