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Newcastle United powerhouse Joelinton has declared Sunday’s win over Liverpool as “one of the happiest days” of his life.
While local hero Dan Burn - who bagged the historic opener - was awarded the official man of the match, many crowned the Brazilian as the Magpies’ best player at Wembley. Blocks, tackles and an all-round dominant midfield performance typified Joelinton’s transformation under Eddie Howe.
Few could have recognised the goal-shy striker who arrived at St James’ Park in 2019. Mike Ashley infamously stumped up a club-record £40million to sign Joelinton from Hoffenheim and he was immediately given the No.9 shirt.
Just 10 goals from 80 games in his first two seasons made the 28-year-old a Premier League laughing stock. Reports in 2021 suggested Newcastle were considering selling the now revered box-to-box midfielder.
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A chance situation against Norwich City in November 2021 saw Ciaran Clark sent off after nine minutes. This resulted in Joelinton being deployed as a makeshift midfielder - and he has never looked back.
A lucrative contract extension last year was a just reward for a player who has enjoyed a roller-coaster ride on Tyneside. Joeinton’s redemption arc was complete on Sunday as his all-action display helped Newcastle beat Liverpool to win the Carabao Cup.
"It's crazy and one of the happiest days of my life other than my kids being born or my wedding,” he told NewcastleWorld post-match. “It is just an incredible feeling. I am just so, so glad and happy. For me, for the fans, they have been through so much but they are incredible.
"We are really, really happy for them to give them this day. Yes, that was my favourite part. That is what this city demands and I want the fans to feel like they have a fan on the pitch, that's what I want to be. I want to give my best and that is what I will always do."
Eddie Howe was blown away by Joelinton from day one at Newcastle United
Howe acknowledged his initial surprise at how good Joelinton is when speaking to reporters last year. He said: "The first time I saw him, I thought, 'what a player he is'. It led me very quickly to think why has he not been a success. In terms of the position, we stumbled upon it and he has taken that opportunity superbly well. He has looked natural.
"In previous clubs he had played in a deeper role as a number 10, but his defensive qualities have been as good as his attacking. The player deserves huge credit for that transformation because it is not an easy transition.
"He does pride himself on being the athlete you want to see. He has strength and speed. He is like a brick wall, you cannot move him. The physical side is probably his biggest strength."
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