£40m Newcastle star 'looks bigger and stronger' amid Howe revival

Newcastle United star Joelinton looks “bigger and stronger”, says Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The 25-year-old has been a revelation under Eddie Howe since the Englishman came in, helping the Magpies climb out of the relegation zone and into 14th place.

It was another solid performance from Joelinton in Newcastle’s 2-0 win against Brentford, with the Brazilian netting at the Brentford Community Stadium.

He was brought in as a forward when Steve Bruce signed him in a record £40m deal back in 2019, so goals were initially expected from the former Hoffenheim man.

However, Joelinton has since been moved into midfield by Bruce’s successor Howe and has not looked back.

Under the 44-year-old, he has racked up nine consecutive league appearances playing in that position, so his future looks to be there despite being an attacker by trade.

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Downie has put Joelinton’s impressive displays in midfield down to his increased strength and the way he has been using his body.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the Sky Sports journalist said: “He looks bigger. When you actually see him on the pitch, he looks bigger and stronger. He just looks like he’s got a different way about him; he’s using his body differently.”

It looks like he will, with Howe a fan of the player, something he has made clear on numerous occasions since joining the club.

On Joelinton, the Newcastle boss recently told reporters (via Chronicle Live): “Even from day one, I met a guy that was very level-headed, really fun and happy. A great personality. He’s really popular amongst his team-mates.

“I’ve not been with him through that experience by his side so it’s difficult to see how he’s changed in terms