Steve Bruce has hinted that Joelinton is available for tomorrow’s game, talking up the Brazilian ahead of West Brom’s trip to Tyneside.
The former Hoffenheim star had one of his best games for the club in our 2-0 win at Crystal Palace a fortnight ago, bagging a goal, an assist and looking much more comfortable in a second striker role just behind Callum Wilson.
Now, speaking ahead of Saturday’s 3pm kick off, Bruce has revealed how he’s hoping to see his upturn in form continue – suggesting he’s all set to start alongside Wilson once again.
Here’s what the gaffer’s had to say:
“In Joe, I’m delighted for him.
“He’s found it difficult, there’s no excusing that, but he’s tried, worked hard, dug deep at times and never shirked the responsibility, so you want him to continue.
“I think it helps to have someone like Callum up alongside him to play off him or to the side of him, and not be actual the focus or the target man at the top of it.
“I think he’s done very, very well of late. Let’s hope that continues.”
“It’s never easy to get back-to-back wins in the Premier League – we understand that.
“We’ve got a wonderful opportunity – let’s hope we grasp it.”
Although it’s not conclusive, these comments suggest the 24-year-old is not one of the unfortunate ones forced to stay in self-isolation this Saturday.
As for Wilson, he confirmed via his Instagram page that he was back in training on Wednesday, meaning our top scorer looks set to start against the Baggies.
Should both play, we’ll have to hope they can pick up from where they left off at Palace, with the pair combining brilliantly late on to secure the win.
Follow us on Twitter (@NUFCBlogcouk) and on Facebook HERE
