A look at your Newcastle United evening headlines on Sunday, April 10.
The Alan Shearer verdict on 'major' Newcastle star which supporters will love
Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has expressed his delight at Joelinton's transformation and believes both the record signing and Eddie Howe deserve credit for his revival. The former number nine struggled in his first two seasons at St James' Park, but has become one of the first names on the teamsheet under the current head coach.
Joelinton endured a nightmare debut campaign in black-and-white following his arrival from Hoffenheim in the summer of 2019, with the Brazilian scoring just four times in all competitions. The signing of Callum Wilson then meant the 25-year-old was unable to nail down a regular starting position.
Howe immediately identified Joelinton as an important player in his long-term rebuild, although the former Bournemouth boss admits he did not foresee the transformation into a deep-lying midfielder. Shearer regularly defended the record signing from 'unfair' criticism in the past, and believes his application through these testing times helped forge his bond with the Toon Army.
Newcastle told name of ideal first summer transfer amid Vieira example and £60m verdict
Newcastle United should move to sign Matt Targett on a permanent basis following a successful loan spell so far, according to Warren Barton. The former Magpies skipper also believes Eddie Howe needs to prioritise deals for a central midfielder and a forward in the summer.
The immediate priority for Newcastle remains preserving their top-flight status, with the head coach adamant the club remains in a relegation battle. The Magpies still have trips to relegation rivals Burnley and Norwich City to come, as well as testing clashes against title-chasers Liverpool and Manchester City.
However, following a January spend in excess of £90m, speculation has already begun to focus on the business Newcastle will aim to complete in the next transfer window. Barton has highlighted three areas he would like to see strengthened, and has pointed to Patrick Vieira's blueprint at Crystal Palace as a potential example to follow.
Eddie Howe reaping the rewards for Bruno Guimaraes masterplan at Newcastle United
Eddie Howe made one of his toughest calls as Newcastle United manager on February 8. Ahead of a crucial six-pointer against Everton, the Toon boss left Bruno Guimaraes on the bench - a decision that was met with frustration from a segment of supporters.
At the time, the Magpies were one point adrift from safety and fresh from a mid-season trip to Saudi Arabia after recording just their second win of the campaign. Guimaraes completed his move just nine days earlier and impatient fans were clamouring to see the £40million man.
Had Newcastle lost, Howe would have faced some tough questions. Instead, his decision was vindicated and St James’ Park witnessed its most memorable game of the season as the Magpies climbed out of the relegation zone with a 3-1 victory.
Newcastle legend's theory on the transfer advice Sean Longstaff will receive from his agent
Warren Barton fears Sean Longstaff's agent will suggest it might be time for the midfielder to 'move on' from Newcastle United. However, the Magpies legend is keen to stress he would like the academy graduate to stay with the club next season.
Longstaff has been a bit-part player under Eddie Howe so far, and the 24-year-old is currently set to become a free agent this summer. The central midfielder has struggled with form and injuries since making his first-team breakthrough under Rafa Benitez.
Howe has publicly stressed he would 'love' for Longstaff to remain at the club, and outlined his belief he can be part of the club's long-term future. However, the former Blackpool and Kilmarnock loanee has found himself below Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Jonjo Shelvey, and Joe Willock in the pecking order.
Miguel Almiron can take inspiration from Ryan Fraser to save his Newcastle United career
Miguel Almiron has a window of opportunity in the final eight games of the season to save his Newcastle United career. Fans could be forgiven for fearing the worst when the Paraguayan international replaced Ryan Fraser in the 13th minute following an underwhelming season.
The Magpies’ former record signing has failed to register a goal or assist in 23 top-flight appearances this campaign but did not let the side down last night. In fairness, Almiron impressed and his brilliant piece of skill would have created a first-half opener if the move was not chalked off for a tight VAR call.
Fraser - who has reignited his own Newcastle career in recent months - was forced off with a hamstring strain and Eddie Howe confirmed further assessment will take place today to understand the severity of the injury. Howe said post-match: "It looks like a hamstring issue. I don't know how serious it is, but it was obviously enough to bring him off the pitch today, which is a huge blow with the form that he's been in. Miggy came on and I thought he did really, really well, so I was very pleased with his impact."
