‘Breath of fresh air’ – Dyer changes opinion on Newcastle star

Kieron Dyer believes every top team needs a player like Joelinton, after initially thinking the Newcastle man was “a waste of money”.

The Brazilian joined the Premier League outfit in 2019 for a club-record £40m fee.

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Signed as a No. 9, Joelinton struggled in his first two seasons at St James’ Park before being moved back into a midfield role this term.

He initially filled in after Ciaran Clark was sent off early on in a draw against Norwich, with Eddie Howe stumbling upon a solid option in centre-midfield.

In his new position, the 25-year-old has won over many of his critics, including former Newcastle midfielder Dyer.

| Joelinton has the most tackles won [36] in the Newcastle squad, and the third most interceptions [27].

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— DailyNUFC (@DailyNUFC_) April 12, 2022

He said (via HITC): “I have been on this platform numerous times when he was playing as a centre-forward saying ‘he was a waste of money’.

“For what he is bringing to that midfield. You see, the most duels he has won there (from Premier League players this season). His physicality, his pace and power.

“He has been an absolute breath of fresh air for Newcastle and he has been one of the key ingredients in the team. You look at all the top teams, they need all a player like that. He does all the work and fair play to him.”

Meanwhile, journalist Pete O’Rourke has backed the Magpies to “blow their rivals out of the water” in the race to sign Christian Eriksen this summer.

The midfielder returned to the Premier League in January as he signed for Brentford, months after suffering a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.

“If Christian Eriksen becomes available on a free transfer,