‘I love him’ - Newcastle United favourite pens emotional Eddie Howe tribute following Premier League U-turn

Joelinton has opened up about Eddie Howe transforming him from a goal-shy forward to a battering-ram midfielder.

For two-and-a-half years, the Brazilian was a Premier League laughing stock. Joelinton arrived from Hoffenheim for a club-record £40million in 2019 and, then just 22, was immediately given the No.9 shirt.

He was plunged into a club in crisis following Rafa Benitez’s exit and thousands of season ticket holders giving up. Just 10 goals in 80 games as a striker or left-winger saw Joelinton labelled the biggest flop in Newcastle’s history.

A move to Turkey appeared on the cards but the now 27-year-old stayed and fought for his place. While there were signs of improvement early into the 2021-22 season, it was not until Howe took charge that Joelinton reignited his stalled career.

The Toon boss deployed him in midfield - and never looked back - with Joelinton going on to become a fans’ favourite. A pivotal wheel in staying up and securing Champions League the following year, the midfield powerhouse is a hit with supporters.

He penned a bumper contract extension in April and, when fit, is one of the first names on Howe’s team sheet. Joelinton has hailed the Newcastle manager for saving his St James’ Park career and urged him against the vacant England hot seat.

“He’s done a lot for me since day one,” he said. “He’s a great coach, a great man. I love him. I have a lot of respect for him. He definitely changed my career; I will be grateful forever. We love him here, we want him here. I know he can take us to the next level.

“To see his name (linked) with the England job shows how good he is, how well he’s done since he came here. But of course, we want him to stay for as long as possible. We want to stay with him.”