Jamie Carragher believes Joelintion’s transformation is one of the key reasons for Eddie Howe’s Manager of the Season nomination. A dramatic U-turn in form this campaign has seen the Brazilian rebuild his black-and-white career to become a cult hero at St James’ Park.
The 25-year-old - crowned the club's Player of the Year ahead of yesterday's win - was dubbed a £40million flop following his arrival from Hoffenheim in 2019, with a barren spell in front of goal seeing him stripped of the number nine shirt. However, Howe made a bold decision to convert Joelinton into a midfielder following his appointment - and the move has paid dividends.
Newcastle have propelled up the table in 2022 to move comfortably clear of the relegation zone. The Magpies’ and Joelinton’s resurgence have coincided and a memorable second half of the campaign has earned Howe a shot of winning Manager of the Season.
