Eddie Howe has insisted that Joelinton will be a key player for Newcastle United moving forward - even if he does get deployed in a different role.
When Joelinton signed the club's media presentation revolved around the Brazilian being a marquee signing who was capable of wearing the number 9 shirt.
But within two years Joelinton handed the iconic shirt to Callum Wilson and the South American has since proved to be effective in a wider position or, as Tuesday showed, in the midfield engine room.
Howe said: "I think Joe's been fantastic for me since we came in.
"We identified that we really, really like him.
"We think he's got a really good mix of physicality and technical ability, and you saw it the other night in some really tight situations deep on the pitch (with) some superb footwork to get out of some really difficult areas.
"His work rate has been a real feature of his play – he's covered every blade of grass for us, he's given everything for the team.
"He has a real selfless mindset, I'd say.
"I've been really, really pleased with him. I think there's more to come as well – I think he can continue to improve – but he's going to be a huge player for us."
Howe goes into the next game with no fresh injury worries and has Jamaal Lascelles and Matt Ritchie back from suspension.
He said: "Hopefully the squad's come through unscathed, and obviously we've got the two boys returning from suspension as well."
