Gary Lineker has heaped praise on arguably Newcastle’s standout performer from their Carabao Cup final win over Liverpool, three years after aiming a dig at the player on social media.
Newcastle ended a 70-year wait for domestic silverware on Sunday after goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak sealed a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
It was a real team effort from the Magpies as they dominated Liverpool for large spells, but the outstanding performance of striker-turned-midfielder Joelinton was highlighted by many as game-changing.
The Brazilian not only man-marked Dominik Szoboszlai throughout, but he would often drop back and help out defensively, as well as being a threat in attacking phases. He was everywhere.
In his post-match analysis of the game on The Rest Is Football podcast, Gary Lineker described Joelinton’s performance as “absolutely superb” before praising the 28-year-old’s engine.
“I think what was really quite remarkable was the fact that every one of Newcastle’s players played really well,” said Lineker as he joined former Manchester City defender Micah Richards on the show.
“Every single one of them turned up. They had great energy, there was no fear. They were confident, they dominated Liverpool. As you said, they pressed really well, there was a great energy. They won the midfield battle, they were terrific in that.”
Lineker added: “I thought Joelinton was absolutely superb. He was everywhere. And then you can, I mean, you can say the same about pretty much everyone.”
After applauding Joelinton’s display against Liverpool on Sunday night, an old post from Lineker reemerged on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.
Back in May 2021 – after Joe Willock became the youngest player in Premier League history to score in six consecutive matches – Lineker referenced Joelinton’s struggles in front of goal.
At the time, the Brazilian was playing as a number nine under Steve Bruce.
Lineker wrote: “Great achievement from @Joewillock scoring in 6 consecutive Premier League games. That’s as many as Joelinton has scored in 2 seasons.”
With the help of Eddie Howe and his backroom staff, the versatile Joelinton has since flourished in a deeper midfield role alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
Howe has often voiced his appreciation for the Brazil international. “He’s just turned into a beast. A machine,” the Newcastle boss said in November.
“He’s someone you put on the pitch and you know what you’re going to get, regardless of the position. He has those mental qualities that he wants to win everything he does. He will try his best. But I want more from him. I think he can get more goals.”
