'I love that': Joelinton was fuming when he was hooked during game last night but Eddie Howe was happy about it
Joelinton made his first start since his return from injury in the 3-2 win over Qarabag at St James' Park last night and marked his Newcastle United return with a superb volleyed goal.
The Brazilian looked up for it from the off, and as well as his goal, he had a brilliant run into the box, charging through the Qarabag defence like they weren't there before playing a cross too close to the goalkeeper.
It was exactly the type of performance we've been missing for so long, and it was good to see the 29-year-old back to his best.
His night was cut short, however, when he was substituted early in the second half, much to his chagrin.
Eddie Howe loved that Joelinton was upset at being substituted
Joelinton looked over towards the bench and instantly looked angry when he saw his number come up. He clearly asked 'why?' as he made his way to the touchline, and had a face like thunder when he took his seat on the bench.
Eddie Howe was asked about it after the game, after it was clear the pair had words on the touchline, but Howe said he loved to see that from Joelinton.
“Joey always plays with passion. That’s what makes him the player he is.
“I’m trying to protect him and make sure we can use him next game. He’s had limited football and he’s important. We need to keep him fit.
“Same with Sven Botman. We’ve got to build their robustness up. But I love that he doesn’t want to come off. That’s him.”
Joelinton is a certainty to start for Newcastle on Saturday against Everton
As well as it being Joelinton's first start since his groin injury, he was also one booking away from a Champions League suspension, so taking him off was just good sense all around from Eddie Howe.
The way Joelinton was charging around the pitch after the ball, it did feel like a booking would be inevitable. At least now he'll be available for the first leg of the next round, at least.
No doubt, Joey will feel he's got a point to prove on Saturday now and will be begging Howe for 90 minutes when Everton come to St James' Park.
