Newcastle United are preparing for a crucial Premier League clash against Chelsea, but one of their most influential players is unlikely to start. Eddie Howe has strongly hinted that Joelinton will be rested once again as the manager looks to protect the midfielder and manage his recovery carefully during a demanding period of the season.
Joelinton has already missed the last two matches, remaining an unused substitute against both Sunderland and Fulham. Despite training throughout the week and making himself available for selection, the Brazilian is expected to begin on the bench again when Chelsea arrive at St James’ Park for the early kick-off. With fixtures coming thick and fast, Howe appears determined not to rush him back into the starting lineup.
Newcastle go into the Chelsea match looking for a response after a disappointing derby defeat at the Stadium of Light. That game ended in frustration, with a Nick Woltemade own goal proving enough to hand Sunderland a narrow victory.
Joelinton could only watch from the sidelines as Newcastle struggled to find their usual edge and intensity.
Speaking ahead of the weekend, Howe made it clear that while Joelinton is not seriously injured, caution is the priority. The midfielder has been training and has been cleared to be involved, but the manager feels it is wiser to give him extra time to recover fully.
Howe suggested that allowing Joelinton a few more days could leave him in a much stronger position to return for the Boxing Day trip to Manchester United, a match that will demand maximum physical output.
The decision reflects Howe’s broader approach to managing player fitness during a congested schedule. Pushing a key player back too early carries risks, and with Joelinton’s importance to the team, Newcastle cannot afford a setback that sidelines him for longer. Rest now, in Howe’s view, may pay off in the coming weeks.
Joelinton’s situation is just one part of a much wider injury problem affecting the squad. Newcastle are currently missing several senior players, particularly in defence. Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn, Tino Livramento and William Osula are all unavailable, leaving Howe with limited options and forcing him to be creative with his team selections.
There is some positive news, however. Nick Pope and Lewis Hall both missed the recent match against Fulham but are close to returning. Their availability would offer a welcome boost, especially given the pressure on Newcastle’s back line. Even so, the number of absentees means that Howe is still searching for short-term solutions to steady the team.
Young players have been given opportunities as a result. Eighteen-year-old Leo Shahar was included in the matchday squad in midweek and could again feature among the substitutes.
His presence highlights just how thin the squad has become, but also shows Howe’s willingness to trust youth when needed.
Alex Murphy, a defender from the under-21s, was called into action after Tino Livramento picked up an injury against Fulham.
Murphy impressed with his calm approach and could be handed his first competitive start for Newcastle if Lewis Hall is not deemed fit in time. It would be a big moment for the young Irishman, but one that could accelerate his development.
Lewis Miley has also shown his adaptability. The teenager filled in at right-back against Fulham and could be asked to do the same job again against Chelsea.
His composure and intelligence have earned him praise, and his versatility has been invaluable during this injury crisis.
Joelinton’s own flexibility has often been a huge asset for Newcastle. Over the years, he has played across the front line and in various midfield roles, becoming one of the most reliable and physical players in the squad.
He has even spent time at centre-back in friendly matches and has covered at full-back when required.
Despite that history, Howe appears reluctant to use Joelinton as a defensive stopgap in competitive matches. When asked about the possibility, the Newcastle boss did not completely dismiss the idea, but it was clear it would not be his first choice.
His reaction suggested that while Joelinton can fill many roles, asking him to solve the current defensive crisis may be a step too far unless absolutely necessary.
For now, the focus remains on managing minutes, protecting players and navigating a difficult run of fixtures with a depleted squad. Resting Joelinton against Chelsea may frustrate some supporters, but Howe’s thinking is rooted in the long-term picture.
With important matches ahead and the season entering a decisive phase, Newcastle are hoping that patience now will lead to stronger performances when their key players return at full strength.
