‘I wish I had a few more!’ - Eddie Howe hints at Joelinton change for Newcastle United versus Liverpool

Eddie Howe admitted to wishing he had more players like Joelinton as he refused to restrict the Brazilian to just one position.

The 25-year-old is one of the biggest success stories to come out of Howe’s reign as head coach so far following his new-found central midfield role, which has completely transformed his career on Tyneside.

But as Howe opted for four changes against Norwich City on Saturday, Joelinton started the game as a No.9, the role he was originally assigned to fulfill when signed from Hoffenheim in July 2019 for a club-record £40million.

Tactical switch pays dividends

With United not at their best during the opening half-hour at Carrow Road, Howe decided to swap Joelinton and Allan Saint-Maximin around, the Brazilian drifting out the left-wing.

And within minutes it paid dividends as Joelinton scored on the 35th and 41st minute to hand his side a 2-0 lead at half-time. Fellow countryman Bruno Guimaraes added a third just after the break with a classy scoop over former Toon goalkeeper Tim Krul.

With Joelinton now having played as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, wide forward and striker under Howe, the 44-year-old revealed he is “open-minded” to the Brazilian’s position.

That could keep upcoming opponents Liverpool guessing, who visit St James’ Park on Saturday following the first leg of their Champions League semi-final with Unai Emery’s Villarreal.

Eddie Howe on Joelinton’s versatility

“(I’m) very opened minded,” Howe said, when asked about Joelinton’s position after the Norwich win.

“I think Joe can play anywhere in those front positions and obviously as an attacking midfielder as well. I’d never say that’s his position and that’s where he’s going to stay.

“Today, he showed his versatility and importance of his role in the team.

“He can play as a centre-forward or a second striker. He can play wide or in an eight. It’s great to have players like that. I wish I had a few more!”

Joelinton on his 100th Premier League appearance

Joelinton made his 100th Premier League appearance for Newcastle on Saturday.

“It means a lot,” Joelinton said. “I’m very proud and very happy to reach this mark with this great club, playing in the best league in the world.

“To get to 100 games is a nice feeling. It’s been a long journey, but I’m very happy to reach this mark. Hopefully, I can continue and there are another 100 to come.

“I’ve had a lot of good moments here, and today was one of them. It’s my 100th Premier League appearance. It was a lovely day with everything going well, although the most important thing was the win and the three points.”