Joelinton: I’m very disappointed

Joelinton has admitted Newcastle United “have to be better” after Saturday night’s 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa at St James’ Park.

The Brazilian midfielder spoke to the Premier League’s North East reporter, Andy Sixsmith, after another frustrating result, insisting the team are “learning” but must improve quickly.

Joelinton reacts on Newcastle defeat 

Joelinton admitted he was “very disappointed” after Newcastle suffered a second successive defeat, but believes there were signs of improvement following the 4-1 loss at Coventry City.

Speaking to Sixsmith after the game, he said:

“I’m very disappointed again after that. We wanted to win. We improved a little bit from Coventry - and deserved a draw.

“We’re learning. There’s a lot to improve but we’re going in the right direction.

“Football is like life - sometimes you have difficult periods - but you have to believe things can change.”

Are we going in the right direction? I think the jury is out on that one, Joe.

Joelinton acknowledged the frustration among supporters, who booed at full-time, after another disappointing, accepting that the responsibility lies with the players to deliver better performances.

“The fans want to win like we do. We don’t want to lose. It’s on us to get better quickly. We know they’ve been patient - but it’s part of football. We have to be better.”

Big Joe must up his game to keep his place

Joelinton’s honesty is welcome, but his own performances must improve if he is to remain a regular starter at Newcastle.

The Brazilian brings physicality, aggression and experience to Newcastle’s midfield, but there have been too many moments where his approach has become clumsy. His tendency to pick up yellow cards is another concern, particularly when Newcastle need discipline and composure in the middle of the pitch.

There are also legitimate questions over whether Joelinton is suited to the No.6 role in Jaissle’s 4-2-3-1 system. His best qualities have often been seen when he can press aggressively, carry the ball and get involved further up the pitch. Playing deeper demands positional discipline, calm decision-making and the ability to protect the defence without putting the team at risk.

Competition is also increasing. Sean Steur is waiting in the wings and has somehow been left out of our last two games despite shining against Hull, Lewis Miley will hope to return to his natural position soon, and Jacob Ramsey is almost back from injury. We have also have £34m signing Aladji Bamba, who has big potential but has barely got a look  since his summer move from Monaco. 

Joelinton remains an important figure in the dressing room, but reputation and past contributions cannot guarantee him a starting place indefinitely.

Newcastle need their experienced players to lead by example during this difficult spell. Big Joe has acknowledged that the team must improve; now he needs to make sure his own performances reflect those words.