Former Newcastle United forward John Barnes has stated that Joelinton has not been receiving the credit that he deserves this season.
The Brazilian striker ended his long wait for another Premier League goal after finding the net in the 3-0 victory over Sheffield United at St. James' Park.
Joelinton missed a glorious opportunity in the first period when the match was still level but then struck after the break, though Barnes believes his contribution goes beyond just goals.
“I think Joelinton is similar to [Everton striker] Dominic Calvert-Lewin because every time I see him play, he’s working really hard, holding the ball up," he told Sky Sports.
"He's not scoring goals but [he's] not really getting the credit he deserves because he’s doing so much for the team. I’m pleased he’s got that goal because he did come with a big reputation.”
Former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill agreed with Barnes, praising Joelinton for the crucial work he did in the build-up to his goal against the Blades.
“For a striker, you want to be in those positions but the way he created the goal, he held it off, he played the ball wide and then made the run into the box.
You can see that he’s got that in him and the finish is what you always want as a striker.”
