Eddie Howe says Newcastle United look a better team when 'snarling' star is at his best
Newcastle United have several key players who can really elevate how the team plays and each one brings something different to the mix.
There was a notable improvement when Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento played together for the first time this season. When Bruno Guimaraes is on top form, he has the ability to elevate the entire team's performance, ditto Sandro Tonali.
The Magpies midfield has often been the envy of many a Premier League side with many pundits saying that the trio of Bruno, Sandro and Joelinton is the best in the Premier League when they're all on form.
We have to agree with that statement, and Eddie Howe has backed that up this morning when speaking to the media ahead of Sunday's visit to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Eddie Howe loves what Joelinton brings to the team
Joelinton had a slow start to the season, and injuries didn't help his cause, but since he returned from his latest setback, he's looked back to his old self, and Howe has talked about how important that is.
"He's such an important player for us. When you see him at his snarling, aggressive best, that's when Joe is in his best mental place. There's a fine line, and he's got to stay ahead of that - we don't want to see him sent off - but he plays with that edge to his game when he's at his best.
"We've seen a really solid return from him since he's come back from his last injury. He and we had to be patient, but we've seen his qualities and how important he is to the team. When he's there, we look a better team"
Joelinton's performance against Leeds United was the perfect example of walking that line
Joelinton toed that disciplinary line against Leeds United when he looked like he was about to headbutt the referee on the stroke of half-time, but he managed to compose himself during the break and came out for the second half and got himself on the scoresheet.
That's the delicate balance that Eddie Howe is referring to, and it makes Joelinton so exciting to watch.
We're so pleased to see him back to his best after having to dig him out for his poor performances earlier this season.
