Summer acquisition Joelinton has revealed that fellow frontman Andy Carroll has “helped a lot” on the training pitch with the pair on the cusp of appearing in the Magpies’ squad for the first time together.
Newcastle head coach Steve Bruce confirmed on Friday morning that Carroll – who re-joined the club in August following his departure from West Ham United – is back in contention for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James’ Park (5.30pm kick-off).
Joelinton – United’s record signing – has started every top-flight game so far this season, and notched his maiden goal for the Black ‘n’ Whites in their eye-catching victory at Tottenham Hotspur four weeks ago.
Although the Brazilian is still getting to grips with the English language, he was keen to point out just how much of a part Carroll – who, at 30, is seven years his senior – has played in his development since his arrival on Tyneside.
“There’s no doubt about it,” Joelinton said, with the help of an interpreter at the Magpies’ Benton base. “It’s always great to have experienced players in the group, and he’s one of them. He can help the club, he can help the young players. Andy Carroll has scored a lot of goals in the Premier League, and it’s great to be playing alongside him.
“He’s a calm guy. I still haven’t spoken to him a lot because my English isn’t great! But every day he’s trying to help. He’ll help me before the games, he’ll give me positional advice and suggest what I’ve done both good and bad. He’s a calm guy and he’s helped a lot.”
With Bruce having opted for one central striker so far this term, Joelinton stressed that he would feel just as comfortable should Carroll end up lining up alongside him at the top end of the pitch.
“Last season at Hoffenheim I played with another No. 9, and I can also move position if the coach asks me,” he said. “It’s the coach’s choice if he wants to be playing with one or two up top; if he wants there to be two, then that’s fine.
“I just want to help Newcastle out – be it playing as a No. 9 or a No. 10, dropping a bit further back. I always just want to help the team and give my all on the pitch, and try and make that lead to a win. I’m here to help in whatever positon I have to play in.”
Though he still just has the one goal to his name so far, Joelinton also spoke of his confidence that further strikes are very much on the horizon, and took a moment to reflect on his first two months as a United player.
“Newcastle signed me for this – I was a big investment for the club and I’m here to score goals,” he said. “I’ve just got one so far but I want to carry on, in every game, trying to help the team, and trying to get goals and assists. I think the team is on the up and the goals will come.
“Things are going well. I’m managing to adapt well and I’m happy to be here. I feel good, I’ve had a great reception, and I know I can improve and help out on the pitch.”