Newcastle United news: Pundit shares ‘huge’ Joelinton prediction
Joelinton has what it takes to become the captain of Newcastle United.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, former England and Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson hailed Joelinton, 27, as an “integral” member of Eddie Howe’s squad and was adamant he could wear the armband for the Magpies in the future.
The club confirmed on Thursday (11 April) that the Brazilian has signed a new long-term contract following months of speculation regarding his future at St James’ Park.
His first season-and-a-half as a striker following his then-club-record fee of £40million in 2019 was underwhelming and many Newcastle fans could not foresee a turnaround.
Joelinton is captain material for Newcastle United – Robinson
However, Howe converted him into a combative midfielder, where he has helped the Magpies qualify for the Champions League and reach the League Cup final.
Robinson pointed to Joelinton’s age as a huge factor as to why he is captain material and was very excited that the club managed to tie him down to a new deal.
“Joelinton has become an integral part of the starting line-up,” he told the Inside Track podcast.
“He’s gone from being a striker who looked lost in the Premier League to a midfielder who looks like he’s been established for years.
“You have to give the manager credit and with Joelinton’s attitude and work rate off the ball too.
“Joelinton seems to be happy – and that’s a huge thing in football.
“With the manager, I think he’s found a position where he’s comfortable and he could go on and become the captain of Newcastle, which would be huge.
“At his age, he still has a lot of his career left.
“Newcastle are a strange one because they’re the richest club in the world but they’ve been unable to buy players.
“So for them to sign someone like Joelinton on a new contract and get rid of that doubt of him leaving is a big thing for Newcastle.”
In other news, Newcastle United ready to open talks over midfielder deal.
For more Newcastle United news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.