Eddie Howe might have a big decision to make ahead of one of the most important games of Newcastle United’s season, and what he saw in the Champions League this week may push him toward a bold change.
Newcastle travelled to Germany to face Bayer Leverkusen in a tough European test that ended in a 2-2 draw. Goals from Anthony Gordon and Lewis Miley earned a valuable point, but not every player came away from the match with their reputation enhanced.
The performance left Howe with more questions than answers as he turns his attention to Sunday’s huge Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland. It will be the first meeting between the two rivals since January 2024, when they battled in the FA Cup.
Before that, fans had not seen the famous clash since 2016. The occasion means everything to supporters on both sides, and Howe knows the importance of getting it right at the Stadium of Light.
With such a crucial fixture on the horizon, Howe may have no choice but to make a tough call on Joelinton. The Brazilian has long been seen as one of Newcastle’s most influential players, but this season he has struggled to produce the same power and presence that once made him indispensable.
His display against Bayer Leverkusen only highlighted those concerns. One frustrated fan even labelled his performance “pointless,” a harsh but telling reflection of how supporters are beginning to feel.
Joelinton was substituted in the second half after appearing to pick up a groin problem, and that injury could give Howe the perfect opening to leave him out without turning the situation into a major talking point.
It is not about punishing a player it is about picking the side that gives Newcastle the best chance of coming away with a win in a match that means so much to the city. Right now, Joelinton is simply not offering the same level of impact he once did.
His place in the starting lineup is under serious threat, especially with the rapid rise of Lewis Miley. The young midfielder is living every local kid’s dream, and nobody is more excited for the derby than him.
Born and raised in the region and developed in Newcastle’s academy, Miley understands every bit of emotion attached to this rivalry. He knows what it means to the supporters, the club, and the community. That passion alone won’t earn him a place in the starting team, but his performances lately certainly could.
Miley has shown maturity well beyond his years, and his confidence is growing with every match. His goal against Bayer Leverkusen wasn’t just his first in the Champions League it was a moment that showed he belongs on the biggest stage.
The timing could not be better. He is full of belief, he is playing with freedom, and he’s offering exactly the kind of energy Newcastle have needed in midfield this season.
With Joelinton short on form and possibly carrying an injury, this feels like the perfect moment for Howe to turn to the teenager.
Miley has been patient, waiting for his chance, biding his time behind more established players. But football often rewards those who are ready when the opportunity arrives, and right now, Miley looks ready to grab it.
Starting a local lad in such a fierce derby also sends a message it shows trust, ambition and a commitment to building toward the future. It gives the team someone who will fight for every ball, someone who feels the weight of the shirt in a game that divides the region.
In a match where desire can matter as much as tactics, Miley’s fire could be exactly what Newcastle need.
The derby will be intense, emotional and unpredictable, but Eddie Howe must choose players who can rise to the moment. Joelinton’s struggles this season can’t be ignored any longer, and with Miley stepping into form at the perfect time, the decision seems clear.
This is the moment for Howe to be brave, look to the future, and trust a young star who is quickly becoming one of the most exciting talents in English football.
