This is the problem with Joelinton at Newcastle United

The striker has only scored one Premier League goal for Newcastle United since his £40million move from Hoffenheim last summer. And Bruce admitted after last weekend’s 4-0 defeat to Arsenal that Joelinton needed to “get in the box” to attack Allan Saint-Maximin’s deliveries.

However, Bruce believes that the 23-year-old – who is doubtful for tomorrow’s game against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park – has the right attitude to succeed at the club.

"I have to say his team play, his work rate and attitude (is good),” said head coach Bruce. “With that, I'm sure he’ll come good. He's still only 23.

“The only thing we can do is try and keep encouraging him. He's had a sharp learning curve. We know that there’s a talent there, and the kid has a heart as big as himself. We hope he can score a few more.

"He'll learn from what has been a difficult first half of the season for him. As long has he keeps working hard, and shows the right attitude. We’re convinced that we have a player in there.

"He might not be a natural goalscorer, that's the key. He has to be a bit more selfish and think about scoring goals. He’ll be desperate to play tomorrow even though he has a niggling thigh injury. He doesn’t shirk anything, and for that you hope he comes good."

Meanwhile, striker Andy Carroll remains sidelined with a hip problem.