Eddie Howe says Newcastle United star was so good it was like having two players against Manchester United

Newcastle United were forced to play with 10 men late in the first half of their clash with Manchester United on Wednesday night, but despite the numerical disadvantage, manager Eddie Howe was still full of praise for one of his standout performers. According to Howe, midfielder Joelinton delivered such an influential display that it felt as though Newcastle had an extra player on the pitch.

Joelinton produced yet another commanding performance in the centre of midfield, continuing the impressive form he has shown since returning from injury. The Brazilian has quickly re-established himself as a vital component of Howe’s side, combining his trademark physical presence with a level of technical quality that makes him a constant threat in both defensive and attacking phases of the game.

At one moment during the match, Joelinton showcased his flair by gliding past Bruno Fernandes with a clever piece of skill that left the Manchester United captain completely wrong-footed. The move sparked a promising Newcastle attack that eventually saw Lewis Hall unleash a shot that narrowly flew over the crossbar. It was a moment that perfectly captured Joelinton’s influence, as he drove the team forward while also controlling the tempo in midfield.

Throughout the contest, the Brazilian seemed to be involved in almost everything positive Newcastle created. Whether breaking up opposition attacks, carrying the ball forward with power, or linking up with teammates in advanced areas, Joelinton’s work rate and determination were evident in every phase of play. His energy and aggression helped Newcastle remain competitive even after being reduced to 10 men.

However, Joelinton may have considered himself fortunate to remain on the pitch following an incident in which he reacted angrily to receiving a yellow card. Frustrated by the decision from referee Peter Bankes, the midfielder sarcastically applauded the official — a gesture that could easily have resulted in a second booking and an early exit. Fortunately for Newcastle, teammate Sandro Tonali quickly intervened to calm the situation and prevent things from escalating further.

After the final whistle, Howe spoke to reporters about Joelinton’s performance and admitted that the midfielder’s influence on the pitch was so significant that it almost felt like Newcastle had an extra man.

“When he performs like that, it’s almost like having two players out there,” Howe explained. “He’s an incredible player when he’s fully fit and playing at his highest level.”

The Newcastle manager also acknowledged that managing Joelinton’s fitness has been a delicate balancing act since his return from injury. The club had been without the midfielder for a spell earlier in the season, and Howe is keen to avoid another setback that could deprive the team of one of its most important figures.

“He’s someone we’ve recently lost through injury, so we have to be extremely careful not to lose him again,” Howe continued. “I’ve probably given him more minutes than I originally planned, but he’s such an important player for us. When he reaches that level of performance, it makes a huge difference to the team.”

Howe emphasised that maintaining such high standards requires consistent effort and careful management, adding that the club is hopeful Joelinton can remain healthy and continue delivering the same level of impact.

“It takes a lot to get a player to that level and to keep him there,” he said. “We just hope he stays fit and keeps performing the way he has over the last few matches.”

Interestingly, Howe had already experienced just how passionate Joelinton can be about staying on the pitch earlier in the week during Newcastle’s Champions League clash with Qarabag FK. When the manager attempted to substitute the midfielder in order to manage his minutes, Joelinton reportedly looked less than pleased as his number appeared on the substitution board.

The fiery reaction hinted at just how determined the Brazilian is to contribute to the team, even when the coaching staff are attempting to protect him physically.

Given the form Joelinton has shown in his last few appearances, it is difficult to imagine Howe leaving him out of the starting lineup anytime soon. His blend of strength, aggression, and technical ability has made him indispensable in Newcastle’s midfield, and if he continues performing at this level, dropping him would hardly seem like an option.

For now, Newcastle supporters will simply hope their influential midfielder can stay injury-free and maintain the sensational form that has made him one of the team’s most important players in recent weeks.