Joelinton’s Newcastle United injury explained after ‘very good performance’ at Tottenham

Eddie Howe has explained how Joelinton was fit to start for Newcastle United against Tottenham Hotspur. The Brazilian played 90 minutes in a 2-1 victory in North London.

Joelinton was forced off at half-time with a knee injury during the midweek win over Everton and was rated as doubtful ahead of the visit to the capital. The 26-year-old, however, recovered to retain his place in the starting XI, although switched from central midfield to a wide position.

“We had a good feeling he would be (OK),” said Howe. “The day after the Everton game he said he felt OK and it wasn’t as bad as maybe we feared initially. Slight swelling on the joint but nothing massive so quick recovery. He’s so important for us.

“Today he played in a different position (wide left). We wanted his height and the ability he gives us out of possession coming to a very tough ground. I thought he gave a very good performance.”

Joelinton was at the centre of two penalty appeals by Newcastle. Emerson Royal brought down Joelinton in the opening stages before a second half header hit off the Spurs full-back’s arm. Referee Jarred Gillett and VAR, however, were unmoved.

Fortunately for Howe’s men, that didn’t matter. First half goals from Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron put United 2-0 up before they ensured Harry Kane’s goal was nothing more than a consolation.

“2-1.. the atmosphere changes and Tottenham get their tails up and we have a big question mark against how we respond at that moment. I loved the response from the team, we were still aggressive and didn’t drop deep or go into protection mode.

“We stayed very strong and involved in the game as an attacking threat, which I think is a really positive sign for the future if can maintain that feeling that we don’t want to go into our shells in that moment, because we’re being questioned defensively at that time. And there’s a really strong response and a very good ending to the game for us.”