Newcastle United: Fans play down Joelinton form in training

Responding to a piece by the Chronicle which asked Newcastle fans if Joelinton could follow in Miguel Almiron’s footsteps and return to goalscoring form, whilst also highlighting his brilliant attitude in training, most Magpies supporters were hesitant to say the least – especially since his first goal in all competitions since August came against a League One side.

The Brazilian forward has been heavily scrutinised from fans and the media alike this campaign, having signed from Hoffenheim in the summer to the tune of £40 million, breaking the club’s transfer record, scoring just one Premier League goal all season way back in August 2019 against Tottenham.

Now, after Joelinton broke his drought with the fourth and final goal against Rochdale during the Magpies’ 4-1 FA Cup win earlier this week, a piece from the Chronicle has enquired over whether he can recapture the form which persuaded Newcastle to sign him in the first place – similar to fellow 2019 acquisition Almiron – whilst also hailing his attitude in training.

Compared to striking partner Andy Carroll, while Joelinton has notched two more goals in all competitions, the Englishman has appeared to prove himself a more well-rounded team player in terms of stats – notching one more assist and winning a higher amount of aerial duels on average, as per WhoScored.com.

Here’s how Toon fans responded to the notion of Joelinton’s improvement – find all of their best comments down below.

Can’t win games by being good in training. It’s the matches that count. I hope he comes good, but he has to prove it.

— Adam (@tabret2004) January 16, 2020