Former Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell has hailed ‘revelation’ Joelinton following his stunning transformation at Newcastle United.
The Brazilian was regarded as a £40million flop earlier this season after struggling to make his mark on Tyneside. Originally signed as a striker in 2019, he was handed the iconic number nine shirt and tasked with leading the line by himself in a defensive Magpies side.
A clear lack of confidence led some to questions over whether his days at St James’ Park were numbered. However, since Eddie Howe converted Joelinton into a central midfielder, his form has improved drastically - with the 25-year-old winning the club’s player of the month for February.
Few Toon fans had Joelinton in their best XI at the start of the campaign but you would struggle to find any that leave him out now. Ex-Gunners forward Campbell believes the Brazilian is this season’s surprise package and hailed Eddie Howe for unearthing his talent.
“He’s been the real surprise package for me this season,” he told Football Insider.
“He came to the club as a striker and didn’t really take off as the game’s a bit different in England with your back to goal. All of a sudden, he’s been a revelation in midfield. He’s big, athletic, strong and technically, he’s very good. Fair play to Eddie Howe, he’s spotted something, tweaked it, and now he’s reaping the rewards.
“You can see that they missed him when he was out. He’s got the height and power to be effective in both boxes, too. I think he’s gonna be a brilliant addition now he’s back in that starting line-up.”
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