Joelinton on Alexander Isak - rules out Newcastle United tactical move amid Liverpool talk

Joelinton has dismissed suggestions he will once again lead the line for Newcastle United should Alexander Isak leave the club.

The Brazilian famously joined Newcastle as a £40million striker six years ago. He was also burdened with the iconic No.9 shirt despite never possessing natural goalscoring prowess.

It soon became clear that Joelinton was not a striker as he became known as one of the Premier League’s most infamous flops. A cut-price deal to Turkey was mooted but the 28-year-old stayed the course - and is now reaping the benefits.

Joelinton transformation under Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe transformed Joelinton into a midfield powerhouse early into his reign as Toon manager. Following the takeover, few would have expected him to last another four years at St James’ Park but he now enjoys cult-hero status on Tyneside.

Joelinton’s omission towards the back end of last season was evident but he is now fighting fit going into the new campaign. The enforcer made a bulldozing return in Newcastle’s pre-season defeat to Arsenal at the weekend.

Newcastle United switch played down

Speaking to the Daily Mail during the pre-season trip, Joelinton toed the club line of Isak being injured when grilled about the striker’s future. The Swede stayed at home while his teammates jetted to Asia amid reported Liverpool interest.

Speculation about potential replacements has emerged but, one thing for sure, Joelinton will not be reassuming his former role. He said: “I hope not. We have one of the best centre-forwards in the world. He’s a great lad, we love him. We can wait for him to come back to the team and play with us.”

Eddie Howe gives fresh Alexander Isak update

Howe was keen to remind the press that Newcastle hold the cards in the Isak situation. He said yesterday: "He is still our player. He’s contracted to us. We, to a degree, control what is next for him. I would love to believe all possibilities are still available to us.

"My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control. We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club. My wish is he stays and we see him playing again next year."

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