Eddie Howe reveals ‘big blow’ for Newcastle United ahead of Wolverhampton Wanderers clash

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe admits it is a “big blow” to lose Joelinton for the next two Premier League matches - but has challenged another player to stake a claim for a permanent spot in the starting XI.

The Brazilian picked up his 10th yellow card of the campaign during the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City last weekend and will therefore miss Sunday’s clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest the week after.

“It’s a big blow for us,” said United’s head coach. “Joe has been very consistent for us this year. In and out of possession, I think he’s been very good, and his game has gone onto another level.

“He’s played various roles and has a great mentality. He wants to win in every moment, compete in training and games, and is very consistent with his attitude. A big blow, a big miss.”

Although the January departure of Jonjo Shelvey left Newcastle light in midfield, Howe does have two players to call on in Joe Willock and Elliot Anderson.

Indeed, it is Willock that is most likely to start in Joelinton’s place alongside Sean Longstaff and Bruno Guimaraes in a three-man midfield. But a change in formation, allowing Howe to utilise his attacking options such as Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Allan Saint-Maximin, could also come into play.

Whoever is selected, Howe has challenged them to perform and nail down a permanent spot in the starting XI. Howe said: “Always it’s a positive because it’s a chance for someone else to grasp that shirt and try to make sure they don’t come out the team themselves.”