Joelinton, Archie Gray, Tottenham
Credit: Imago, tabii
Evan Lloyd
Sun 3 August 2025 18:06, UK
Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has attracted criticism for several unattractive challenges so far in pre-season.
The Brazilian has been involved in notable incidents in games against both Arsenal and Tottenham, with Spurs fans unhappy with a foul on Archie Gray during Sunday’s (3 August) match.
The game, played in the South Korean capital of Seoul, ended level after goals from Brennan Johnson and Harvey Barnes.
Archie Gray looking in the distance
Gray was on the end of a nasty challenge (Credit: Imago)
Tottenham News presents the exclusive opinion of former Premier League and FIFA-listed referee Keith Hackett.
Eddie Howe needs to ‘have a word’ with Joelinton
Joelinton has not been afraid to throw his weight around in pre-season, despite the games being played, by definition, as friendlies.
MORE SPURS STORIES
The Brazilian was first criticised during Newcastle’s game against Arsenal, when he left his arm in the air as 15-year-old talent Max Dowman looked to skip past him.
Although Joelinton’s intention was not clear, the midfielder certainly could have avoided making contact with the teenager’s face.
And it was another youngster who the Newcastle man collided with on Sunday, with Spurs midfielder Gray on the end of what looked to be an intentionally thrown back forearm from his opponent.
Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett exclusively told Tottenham News that referees will be on the lookout for similar challenges next season.
“*I do think that Joelinton’s manager needs to have a word with him. This is another incident where his arm is raised and comes into contact with his opponent,*” said Hackett.
“The action is in my opinion deliberate and frankly should be detected by the match officials and punished.
“In the season ahead the Sports Analysts employed by the PGMOL will be advising the referees to look out for this action.
“*VAR operators will also be taking a closer look also. He needs to change his approach and demonstrate his skills.*“
Premier League referees under pressure
Premier League referees are, once again, under huge pressure to enforce consistent following of the rules next season.
Inconsistency in decision-making has prompted outcry on several occasions over the past few years, with some fans demanding a complete overhaul of the league’s refereeing body.
Joelinton’s actions in pre-season will only serve to increase that pressure, with the midfielder often allowed to get away with far too much last season.
Sign up for the daily Tottenham News newsletter on Substack and our new WhatsApp channel to have all the latest, breaking Tottenham Hotspur news sent straight to your phone.
Related Posts