Eddie Howe is considering removing Joelinton from Newcastle’s starting line up after his drink-drive arrest.
The Brazilian star is facing a court appearance this month after being stopped at 1.30am on Thursday after a night out. Joelinton has held talks with Howe and is ”extremely remorseful”, and Howe says it is not certain he will pick him to face Fulham on Sunday at St James’ Park.
Newcastle’s Saudi ownership group have been informed of the incident, and Howe says he will be left to deal with the fall-out his own way. And the whole Newcastle squad could now be put through extra training to raise their awareness of driving issues including not using mobile phones at the wheel.
Asked if Joelinton, a crucial part of United’s revival this season, will play Howe said: “I am going to have to reflect and analyse that close to the game in consultation with him. So I am not sure.
“It came as a shock. A difficult situation. Joe is very remorseful and was very upset yesterday. He knows the seriousness. I can't go into too much detail but he understands his responsibilities. We are supporting him but understand the situation.
“‘Everything will be dealt with internally. Looking at Joe as a person, he is a very good professional and is hugely passionate about his career and the club. I was very much surprised by what happened.
“But we will back him and support him, while also educating him and helping him, that is important. He is very young, everyone makes mistakes. I think it is also important that we don’t overreact.”
Howe is considering educating his squad about motoring matters, including texting while driving and speeding. He said: “All of us as humans cannot educate ourselves enough on these things. I don’t claim to be an expert on this area. For all the squad it might be time to do that.
“In these times we have to be stronger together rather than become fractious and it give us problems. We understand the seriousness. We have to support Joe as well.”
Asked what factors he will consider to select Joelinton, who scored in the win over Leicester on Tuesday night, Howe said: “We will consider lots of factors, that is with every player. This is a different situation. My relationship with Joe is very good. I have sat down with him and will do so again.
“Ultimately, I have to pick the best team to win the game, that’s my job, but I also have to take into account the situation around that. Does he want to play? Undoubtedly, yes.”
Joelinton is the first player Howe has managed who has been arrested and he said: “We have had discussions (with the owners), because we are open about events at the football club. Nothing has gone beyond an explanation of what happened and how we will deal with it. Everything then is left in my hands.”
Newcastle face an in-form Fulham side who have won four in a row. Howe is wary of Marco Silva’s men and said: “They are in good form and Marco has done well with the team and their style is a cohesive unit, tactically interesting and dangerous attacking players. two very good form teams going at each other.”
