Eddie Howe says he will wait before making a selection decision on Newcastle United forward Joelinton against Fulham. The Brazilian was hit with a drink driving charge on Thursday morning and face a magistrates court appearance at the end of the month.
Howe was asked if he would play the £40million man. Howe said: “I am going to have to reflect and analyse on that and make a decision closer to the game in consultation with him. I am not 100 percent sure.”
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Joelinton has been one of the stars of the season again this term and scored one of the most important goals of the campaign on Tuesday night against Leicester City.
Speaking about Joelinton’s mood after the incident, Howe said: “It came very much as a shock and it's a very difficult situation. Joe is very remorseful and was very upset yesterday. He knows the seriousness of the situation.
“I can’t go into too much detail in respect of the case but he understands his responsibilities. We are now in a position where we are supporting him and we also understand as a football club the seriousness of the situation.”
When asked if Joelinton would be punished, Howe said: “Everything will be dealt with internally. Looking at Joe as a person he is a very good professional.
"He is passionate about his football career and the club and I was very much surprised by what happened. We will back him and support him while also educating him at this moment. He is very young and everyone makes mistakes.”
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