Alan Shearer does not believe he has ever seen a 'change' comparable to Joelinton's 'transformation' at Newcastle United. The Magpies' all-time leading goalscorer hailed the club's former record signing in his review of a memorable campaign on Tyneside.
Eddie Howe's first full season in charge at St James' Park culminated with a top-four finish, as well as a first domestic cup final appearance at Wembley for 24 years. Joelinton's transformation from a struggling striker to an all-action midfielder began the previous campaign, but developed further as the former Hoffenheim star enjoyed his best goalscoring return in black-and-white.
Newcastle's number seven often deputised as a left forward, netting eight times and dovetailing to great effect with Joe Willock. Injury in the final two fixtures halted Joelinton's bid for a double-digit return, having put himself in contention with a brace in the emphatic victory at West Ham and successive strikes against Tottenham and Everton.
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Shearer named Kieran Trippier as his player of the season, while also highlighting Sean Longstaff's impact on improving for the team. The legendary number nine described Joelinton's efforts this season as 'superb', praising his physicality and contributions in the final third.
Shearer told the Pod on the Tyne podcast: "Wow, the transformation...I don't think I've ever seen a change in a player [like it]. He is a beast of a midfielder, takes no s*** from anyone. He's hard as nails, scored his goals, just been superb."
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