Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling has suggested that Steve Bruce could be in big trouble due to the struggles of Newcastle striker Joelinton.
Joelinton causing Bruce problems
Stelling was speaking on Soccer Saturday after the Magpies had drawn 1-1 with Aston Villa on Friday night, when the £18m-valued Brazilian played the full 90 minutes but failed to get a shot on target.
The broadcaster believes Bruce has a big problem with the former Hoffenheim forward, saying (via Sunderland Echo):
"Steve Bruce afterwards said you’re only as good as your strikers, in which case he’s in big trouble, isn’t he?
"I thought Joelinton actually did have a decent game but he’s afraid to pull the trigger. He’s afraid to shoot.
"He’s so lacking in confidence."
Needs Wilson back soon
It is still incredible to think that Newcastle parted with £40m to take the Brazilian to the Premier League, smashing their transfer record in the process (
The Guardian). In 71 games for the Toon, he has managed just seven goals (
Transfermarkt) and, as Stelling said, he has regularly looked devoid of confidence.
In the aftermath of the Villa clash, Bruce revealed that Callum Wilson will not be available for next weekend's game against Brighton (
Shields Gazette). With 10 goals to his name this term, the England international has twice as many strikes as Newcastle's second-top goalscorer Miguel Almiron (
BBC). As the Toon fight for survival, there is no doubt they need the former Bournemouth striker back as soon as possible.
Otherwise, as Stelling has warned, the Newcastle boss could be in for some sleepless nights over the next two months.
In other news, Newcastle face competition to sign this Europa League star.
