Brazilian was sorely missed last season and Eddie Howe will be hopeful of a return to the top four with the midfielder
By Ben McAleer for WhoScored
Newcastle conceded more shots than any other team on the opening weekend of the Premier League season. Their home game against Southampton was supposed to be a walk in the park. However, their afternoon was made all the more difficult owing to Fabian Schär’s first half red card. Nevertheless, the Magpies ground out a 1-0 win in a backs-to-the-wall performance.
Joelinton’s strike on the stroke of half-time proved the difference at St James’ Park. The Brazilian remained composed to tuck past Alex McCarthy after the Saints goalkeeper had carelessly passed the ball to Alexander Isak. The goal proved the difference on home turf as Southampton huffed and puffed without success for an equaliser. Eddie Howe’s difference-maker against the promoted side deserved the accolades, not only for his goal but for his all-round performance to boot.
