Jermaine Jenas outlines Joelinton problem despite ‘best game in a Newcastle shirt’ claim

Joelinton had his best game in a Newcastle United shirt against Aston Villa.

That was the view of former United midfielder Jermaine Jenas who also believes that highlights the problem for the Magpies as he struggled to even threaten the opposition goal.

The 24-year-old has come under fire since his £40million club record move from Hoffenheim in the summer of 2019, scoring just three times in 60 Premier League appearances.

The Brazilian earned praise for some of his work in Friday’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa but the killer instinct in front of goal was still desperately lacking.

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It is a dilemma that many Newcastle fans have been wrestling with and Jenas’ analysis will resonate with the frustrations of many of the Toon Army towards the former Rapid Vienna forward.

“I think there were times in the game where Newcastle played really well,” Jenas told Match of the Day.

Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Jermaine Jenas (Image: BBC Sport)

“Joelinton potentially had his best game in a Newcastle shirt but it all seemed to fall apart once they got in that 18 yard box.

“Even into the final third, some of the decision making at times…

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“Dwight Gayle and Fraser have got to get closer into positions where they can score goals. Joelinton doesn’t get his shot off in the first half.

“These are the situations Steve Bruce is talking about.

“We know Joelinton isn’t a true centre-forward and these situations explain that. Just shoot there and anything can happen.

“It was a negative pass. In a weird way it was his best game in a Newcastle shirt and he gave Tyrone Mings a torrid time but it doesn’t really matter because he doesn’t score goals.”