Newcastle United went into the March international break on the highest possible note thanks to their Carabao Cup final triumph.
The Magpies beat Liverpool 2-1 on Sunday to win their first major piece of silverware since the 1960s, and their first domestic trophy since 1955.
Newcastle’s players were excellent to a man on the day, the Reds struggling to cope with the Magpies’ desire and intensity.
Joelinton was one of Newcastle’s best players on the day, and Toon cult hero Steve Howey used one word to describe the Brazil international.
READ MORE: Alan Shearer reveals what he said to Dan Burn immediately after Newcastle won the Carabao Cup
Steve Howey hails ‘bully’ Joelinton in wake of Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup triumph
Howey, speaking on the Seaman Says podcast, sung Joelinton’s praises along with those of several other Magpies players.
He described Joelinton as a “bully” who makes things uncomfortable for opposition players, and he also lauded Sandro Tonali.
Faye Carruthers said Newcastle’s midfield had a “fantastic game” and Howey replied: “Obviously the fans’ favorite is Guimaraes, but I really like Tonali, I think he’s a very, very good player, like good football player.
“And then you’ve got somebody like Joelinton who, let’s be honest, he’s a bully! He goes around just, you know, not fouling but just making it uncomfortable for the opposition team.
“Them three in particular were excellent, but I just think everybody to the man did the shift (on Sunday) and got what they deserved.”
Joelinton has gone from strength to strength at Newcastle since Eddie Howe took the reins and switched him from attack to midfield.
Gary Lineker also praised Joelinton by calling him “absolutely superb”.
What Joelinton said about Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win
A visibly emotional Joelinton spoke to Sky Sports after Newcastle’s cup win and said it was the kind of day that he had always dreamed about.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling, an unbelievable day,” he said.
“I dreamed so much of this feeling and this day. Well done to every player, coach and everyone connected to the club.
“My journey since I started playing football to come from Brazil to here today makes me feel proud.
“It’s an honour for me to give something back to the fans. They support us even in difficult moment. They deserve this after so long.
“It’s the start of a new era for this club.
“It was so disappointing in the last final when we came here and lost.
“We didn’t want to leave anything in tank today. Everyone was fighting and running. I’m so glad and happy for the fans. I’m happy to make my family proud.”
