There is concern for another Newcastle United star as well as Alexander Isak, who was taken off with injury during the win against Brentford.
Alexander Isak found the back of the net at the end of the first half on Wednesday night, but there are now worries about his condition after pulling up shortly after the hour mark.
Toon boss Eddie Howe confirmed Isak has a groin problem and admitted he was not 100% going into the game.
While Howe was not initially concerned for Isak, there is now hope that the lingering groin problem can be resolved before Newcastle United play Leicester next Monday.
Matt Targett was absent from Newcastle’s matchday squad, with 18-year-old Leo Shahar getting the call up to the bench from Newcastle’s academy on Wednesday night. Targett missed the game due to a sickness bug.
Elsewhere, Kieran Trippier came off injured after a bright performance for the Magpies. Howe confirmed Trippier’s departure was due to a ‘cramp sensation’ in his groin.
With the players now able to nurse their respective problems, Howe has now confirmed another Newcastle star has been struggling with an injury.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
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Eddie Howe confirms Joelinton injury problem
Joelinton was an unsung hero in Newcastle’s win against Brentford, playing the full 90 minutes and continuing to prove why his comeback since signing for £40m in 2019 is astonishing, as it is brilliant.
The Brazilian went under the radar due to Sandro Tonali’s sensational strike, which has taken the headlines. But there is concern for the 28-year-old after Howe’s comments while breaking down the injury worries.
“I think his knee was causing him a bit of discomfort today,” Howe said. “It’s the knee that he’s suffered from before.”
“I don’t think he was 100% fit but it would have taken a lot for Joe to have come off the pitch today.”
Joelinton went down in the first half holding his knee. TV cameras showed that the midfielder’s knee was heavily bandaged and required a lot of medical spray before he was able to play on.
Like many Newcastle fans, Howe will be hoping that Joelinton can play through the pain for the final nine games of the season before getting a much-needed break.
Eddie Howe pays huge compliment to Joelinton after Newcastle win
Tonali’s goal was one that few Toon fans may have ever seen in their lifetime, a truly remarkable strike from the Italian out wide to catch goalkeeper Mark Flekken napping.
Newcastle may look back on that moment at the end of the season as one of the most important goals of the campaign – one which could have handed them Champions League football.
Joelinton Statistics vs Brentford
Minutes played 90
Passes Completed 34/42 (81%)
Duels won 13/18
Tackles 3
Interceptions 1
While Tonali stole the show for the Magpies with his miraculous strike, Howe was keen to ensure that Joelinton also got his share of the praise.
“I think Joelinton epitomises the mentality we need,” Howe added.
“It’s win at all costs. Joey is always there for you in training, he’s always there for me.”
“He’s a standard bearer and you need players like that to set the example for everyone else.”