Eddie Howe says he does not look back at Joelinton's tough opening to life as a Newcastle United player. The Brazilian arrived with high hopes of being the Magpies' main man when it came to goals after a £40million transfer from Hoffenheim and the number 9 shirt emblazoned on his back.
Joelinton's first season on Tyneside resulted in four goals in all competitions with Steve Bruce persevering with the South American as a forward. But Howe - due to a necessity - dropped Joelinton into a midfield enforcer position and the switch resulted in the return of his confidence.
Joelinton's power header at Brentford was his only his 12th goal for the club in three seasons but Howe is more than happy with his contributions and sees him as a key player in the run-in. Joelinton now has two to his tally this season but is full of confidence ahead of the clash with Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend.
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Speaking about Joelinton's importance, Howe said: "Since I've come in, I've only seen a player who is keen to learn, wants to work, a very good player technically. "Obviously he had been through a difficult time, but I wasn't a party to that, so I've only seen the good stuff."
Joelinton's name has been chanted loudly at matches throughout the Howe era so far on Tyneside. And even a huge flag of Joelinton is displayed at the Gallowgate End on match days.
Howe said: "You can see his relationship with the supporters, which has been amazing for me to witness, and I would encourage any player to run over to them when celebrating the way he did. "To build your relationship with supporters is so important, and to see that connection and love for each other can only serve us well.
"We need that togetherness to stay in the division."
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