Newcastle United have struggled in front of goal in recent weeks. The Magpies have found the net just twice in their last three matches, with one of those coming from the penalty spot in the frustrating 1-1 draw with Bournemouth at St. James’ Park last weekend.
Much of Newcastle’s misfortune in the final third has come following the injury blows to Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin. The last time those two started together, Newcastle put three past Champions Manchester City.
However, with Wilson picking up a hamstring injury in that game, and Saint-Maximin doing the same in the following match, the goals have dried up. That is despite a strong start to life for Alexander Isak on Tyneside, and many fans will be licking their lips at the prospect of that front three.
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However, one man who is still continuing to perform at a high level is Joelinton, who has created the joint third most number of chances from opening play according to statistics released by the Other 14, an account that compiles statistic for the Premier League excluding the so called ‘big six’.
The Brazilian has so manufactured 11 opportunities for his teammates excluding set-pieces, beaten only by Alex Iwobi, Daniel Podence and Youri Tielemans. With the greatest of respect intended to some of Newcastle’s back-up options, had Joelinton provided some of those chances to the likes of Wilson and co, it is likely he would be sat on more than just the one assist this season.
Eddie Howe will be hoping Joelinton can continue to be consistent in terms of his chance creation, and sooner rather than later – when some of the big hitters return – the goals will begin to fly in again.
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