'It's a no from me' - Sky pundit claims Newcastle player isn't good enough for key role

Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd has argued that Newcastle United forward Joelinton does not have the goal-scoring ability to make it as a central striker in the Premier League.
Joelinton. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)Joelinton. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Joelinton. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

The Brazilian put in an eye-catching performance against Tottenham last weekend, scoring one goal and playing a key role in the buildup to Joe Willock’s late equaliser.

Steve Bruce opted to play the 24-year-old in a wider attacking berth for that match, and reflecting on his display during Soccer Saturday, former Rangers striker Boyd argued that it could be a position which the player is more suited to.

He said: “I think he has struggled.

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"It’s interesting, the last few games Bruce has played him off the right-hand side, and it actually suits him a little bit better for me.

"I know we’ve spoken about him in the main [central striking role] and he tries drift, but when he’s wide he seems to get himself into the box more often than not.

"When you see him running, he’s a really really strong runner – he’s got pace, he’s got strength, but he seems to use it better when he’s out on that side. When he’s through the middle, he drifts away.

"There are signs there that you could potentially work on.

“There’s been a lot things that have been a negative right away for Joelinton, and I’ll be honest with you, I think he’s got a tough job to turn it around.

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"I think the way he is, if he’s a striker who depends on the team creating chances for him, I don’t see Newcastle being that team.

"As a central striker, as a number nine, it’s a no from me.”

Joelinton has failed to hit a consistent patch of form in front of goal since signing for the Toon Army in 2019 for a fee of around £40 million.

So far, the South American has hit eight goals in 73 appearances across all competitions.

Just four of those strikes have come in the Premier League, however, with the ex-Hoffenheim talent registering 84 attempts on goal over the course of his time in the top flight.