Brigit Adongo
After scoring two goals in Newcastle United’s 3-0 triumph over Norwich City, Eddie Howe joked that he wished he had more guys like Joelinton. However, the Newcastle United manager remains “open-minded” about the Brazilian’s role.
Joelinton has recently been rejuvenated as a combative, box-to-box midfielder under Howe, after previously being utilized as an attacking midfielder by the Newcastle manager.
However, after Chris Wood was rested, the club’s record signing started Saturday’s game at Carrow Road up front for the first time since Howe was hired.
Howe made an in-game tactical alteration and pushed Joelinton out wide to the left flank instead of playing Allan Saint-Maximin through the centre after the 25-year-old received little change from Norwich’s defenders in the first half-hour.
Joelinton scored the first goal with a powerful strike in the 37th minute, and the elusive Brazilian doubled his side’s advantage right before the break.
“I’m very open-minded,” Howe told reporters. “I think Joe can play anywhere in those front positions and, obviously, as an attacking midfielder as well.
“I would never say that’s his position and where he’s going to stay. Today, he showed his versatility and the importance of his role in the team.
“He can play as a centre forward, he can play as a second striker, he can play wide and he can play as an eight so it’s great to have players like that. I wish I had a few more!”
