There are fears Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton could miss the Carabao Cup final with Liverpool
Newcastle United fans are concerned another of their stars could miss the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool. Joelinton has been picking up yellow cards recently and is on the cusp of a ban, but will this effect the big day at Wembley?
The Magpies haven’t won a major domestic trophy in 70 years, the FA Cup in 1955, and Eddie Howe will be trying to halt that streak. However, he will need his players to be on top form to dethrone the Premier League leaders at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 16.
The Brazilian midfielder has become a cult icon since transitioning from the frontline to the center of the park in 2021. His combative temperament, toughness, and work ethic have helped him become one of the first names on the club roster.
Newcastle United’s midfield, led by Bruno Guimarães, is a force to be reckoned with, particularly against Liverpool. So if Joelinton is unavailable for selection in the Cup final, it will be a significant loss.
The 28-year-old wears his heart on his sleeve but his tough-tackling characteristics do see him commit a number of fouls – and as a result he also regularly receives bookings. As such, he has picked up nine yellow cards in the league this season, which means one more and he will be suspended for two games.
Newcastle have one Premier League game before the final, away to West Ham United on Monday, but the good news for the Magpies is that, if he is booked in the capital, the two-game ban will only affect top-flight fixtures, so he’ll be safe to take part in the Carabao Cup final. Supporters will be crossing their fingers Joelinton is on his best behavior and avoids being given his marching orders against West Ham.
Speaking to the media this week, Howe stated: “Yeah, unfortunately for Joey, he’s a very competitive guy. He’s always on the line for that side, in my opinion, but you need people like that on your team.
“We’d be devastated to lose him to injury for two games, but perhaps he’ll be able to contain himself like the last time he was on the verge of a suspension. I believe he went several games without being booked, so fingers crossed he can do the same.”
Joelinton will have to play the following Premier League games to avoid suspension: West Ham (A), Brentford (H), Leicester City (A), Manchester United (H), and Crystal Palace (H). The yellow card threshold will be reset after this time.
