Jamaal Lascelles has backed Joelinton to be ‘perfect’ for the Premier League, saying he’s raring to go an will be ‘ready’ for the challenge when Arsenal arrive at St James’ Park a week on Sunday.
The skipper has also revealed his first impressions of the new £40m man, pointing out his size, his power, his pace and his impressive athleticism after training with him for the first time over the past week.
Speaking to BBC Newcastle after Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Preston, here’s what he’s had to say about the Brazilian, backing him to be a big hit following his big money move to Tyneside:
“First impressions are he’s a big lad, he’s fast, he’s strong, he’s very athletic.
“I’m not sure what the German league’s like – I’m not sure whether he’s going to need to adapt or anything – but, personally, I think he’s going to be raring to go. He’ll be ready.
“I think the Premier League will suit him perfect. This (against Preston) isn’t really a reflection on how we’re going to be playing, or how the games are going to be, but he looks lively and I think it’s a very good signing.”
Lascelles points out how impressive the former Hoffenheim man is physically, suggesting his pace, power and size will stand him in good stead in the Premier League, however the big test will no doubt be his ability to score goals.
From my chat with a Hoffenheim fan and our two Q&A’s with Bundesliga pundits, it feels like we’ve bought a player with huge potential and NOT the finished article.
They suggested that patience may well be needed, however it does feel like we have a big talent on our hands, with Lascelles not the first player to come out and say how good he’s looked since he arrived.
Let’s hope he can deliver the goods – something he’ll need to do given he’s still our one and only signing following Rondon and Perez’s exits.
