Joelinton endures night to forget as Leverkusen hold Newcastle

Newcastle United will rue conceding a late equaliser in the 2-2 draw versus Bayer Leverkusen , leaving the Geordies in 12th place on the UEFA Champions League table.

Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes scored an own goal, but the Magpies cancelled Leverkusen’s lead through Anthony Gordon in the second half.

Lewis Miley then came off the bench to replace the ineffective Joelinton and scored what should have been the winner, but Newcastle let Leverkusen take a point.

Joelinton’s performances in the engine room have become a source of concern following some recent displays.

Yesterday, the Brazilian struggled to influence the game, losing 7/9 duels as the game went by him.

Lee Ryder gave him a 5/10 rating and stated how he ‘never quite got going’ against Leverkusen.

The Newcastle midfielder has only managed one goal in the Champions League and the Premier League.

Toons boss Eddie Howe is clearly a fan of the 29-year-old, having made him a mainstay in the team since joining the Tyneside outfit.

Howe has relied on his aggression, ability to impose himself on the opposition, and cutting edge in the final third.

However, Joelinton’s recent performances will prompt him to reconsider his stance.

Miley changed the entire rhythm of Newcastle’s midfield after coming on, offering controlled intensity, cleaner progression, and crucially, end product with his late strike.

The teenager is in a rich vein of form and looks increasingly comfortable dictating the tempo in high-stakes European games.

While Joelinton’s physical presence remains valuable, his recent dip makes it harder to justify the current pecking order.

Miley’s composure, forward thrust, and growing confidence give Howe a different dimension, one Newcastle have badly needed in tight contests.

On current evidence, the youngster has earned the right to start ahead of Joelinton .

If Howe is serious about restoring balance and dynamism to his midfield, Miley should be the one getting the nod.